Motion to strengthen power station contract appeals process defeated

An Opposition motion in parliament to substitute the appeal process for the new power station contract was this evening defeated by 26 votes for and 37 against. Energy Minister Konrad Mizzi described the motion as “full of unfounded allegations which smack of political delaying tactics”. The motion was moved by former ministers Tonio Fenech and George Pullicino. Defending the legal notice, Dr Mizzi asked, “Was it a coincidence that the motion was presented in Parliament at the time of a visit to Malta by one of the credit agencies which was examining the operations of the Government and of Enemalta Corporation?” Dr Mizzi said that the Review Board on energy and carbon products enjoyed the same level of protection as under the Public Procurement Review Board. It allowed the possibility for a bidder to re-enter the process if he was proven right. Environment Minister Leo Brincat said the jurisdiction of the Public Contract Review Board did not extend to energy issues and the Government did not wish to extend this board’s power. It would be more efficient and beneficial to have a separate board. He said the Government was proceeding with the utmost care and transparency possible. The...