Public officers deny receiving gifts

Witnesses in the case against former Enemalta Project's Manager Ray Ferris confirmed under oath they were never offered gifts nor subjected to undue pressure aimed at influencing their decision during the privatisation process of Enemalta's Petroleum Division.

Ferris is charged with trading in influence, bribery and fraud following evidence given by rogue oil trader turned state witness George Farrugia.

The latter alleged Ferris demanded a kick back worth €40,000 to award the Petroleum Division to PowerPlan Ltd.

The company belonged to Farrugia's family and three silver gifts were handed to the accused. The silver centrepieces were allegedly exchanged for a single silver tray at Victor Azzopardi Jewellers. However, Ferris denied asking for the gifts or demanding €40,000.

Finance Ministry permanent secretary Alfred Camilleri was the first of three public officials involved in the privatisation process to take the witness stand today.

Camilleri explained that his job was restricted to open the bidding process. The witness said he knew the accused as an Enemalta official but denied ever receiving gifts or being put under pressure by Ferris.

Questioned by defence lawyer Kenneth Grima, the witness said, "I never spoke to Ferris and if there is ever an attempt to put me under pressure I'd report the case myself".

MIMCOL CEO Mario Mizzi, was next on the stand. He explained the accused worked as Enemalta's project manager and was the liaison officer between the corporation and the Privatisation Unit. Mizzi again reiterated he had never received gifts from Ferris.

The third witness, Victoria Wilson, who also worked at the Privatisation Unit but was on the adjudication board, said that the unit requested huge amounts of information in relation to the bid. Such information included union agreements and workforce numbers.

The information was received through Ray Ferris, she said and similarly to the other witness, Wilson categorically denied allegations of gifts received from the accused. "Moreover any attempt to influence me would have been futile as I was not part of the adjudication board", Wilson said.

Inspector Jonathan Ferris is prosecuting while lawyers Kenneth Grima and Veronique Dalli appeared on behalf of the accused.

Magistrate Demicoli is presiding.