Head of Central Visa Unit resigns over 'personal reasons'

The head of the Central Visa Unit has tendered his resignation from the post, citing personal reasons.

In reply to questions raised by PN MP Beppe Fenech Adami, home affairs minister Carmelo Abela confirmed that the CVU head tendered his resignation, effective as of 13 April, 2013.

He also said that that "all possibilities were being considered" as to whether a public call will be issued.

According to the government's website, the head of the CVU is Neil Harrison.

The Central Visa Unit (CVU) is the Government’s immigration central authority responsible for the provisions of the Schengen acquis, and the implementation of EU visa policy through the proper functioning of the visa issuing procedures in all of Malta’s diplomatic missions and consular posts. It plays a vital role, in collaboration with Immigration Police and the Security Services, in the authorisation procedures of visa issuance to third-country nationals that require such entry clearance. 

Formerly known as the Schengen Implementation Unit within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it was responsible for the introduction of a number of provisions of the Schengen acquis, ensuring proper functioning of the visa issuing procedures in all of Malta’s diplomatic missions and consular posts. 

Since 2004, it has been responsible for the introduction of all legal, organizational, operational, practical and technical conditions regarding visa issuance and ensured that these are fulfilled in a responsible, correct, consistent and judicious manner.