[WATCH] PM concerned over 'relationships Farrugia enjoyed with authorities'

PM concerned over 'relationships Farrugia enjoyed with authorities' • Video by Ray Attard

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat has expressed concern over cosy relationships pardoned oil trader George Farrugia seemed to enjoy with the authorities.

“Matters need to be clear now more than ever. Certain relationships Farrugia enjoyed with the authorities are a cause for concern for me and for the public. It is worrying that these relationships existed,” Muscat told journalists after a visit at the Toly Products Ltd.

Asked by journalists whether former prime minister Lawrence Gonzi misled the public accounts committee, Muscat said he will not comment on Gonzi’s testimony.

“I will not pass judgement on what Gonzi said. I am very concerned about these new revelations and it is now up to the police to determine more through its investigations,” he said.

Yesterday, Muscat said the Cabinet would consider revoking Farrugia’s pardon if police investigations find that the pardoned oil trader failed to honour the conditions of his pardon.

Questioned by the press over the government’s failure to publish the Power Purchase Agreements and energy contracts signed with ElectroGas, Muscat reiterated that the Labour government “has been the most transparent government”.

The Opposition has pushed for the publication of all contracts ahead of an energy debate in parliament. The government, citing commercially-sensitive information, has insisted that it cannot publish any further documents. Last week in parliament it tabled a copy of the agreement-in-principle between Shanghai Electric Power and Enemalta. A copy of the document had been distributed to the media in December.

 During a tours of the TOLY factory, Muscat praised the company for its impressive history of determination and success. The visit was in occasion of the launch of the new corporate offices and an innovative centre-station for the company.

The company, focusing on the manufacture of packaging for cosmetic and beauty products, invested over €2 million to renovate the premises.

Prime Minister tours Toly Products • Video by Ray Attard