Police file charges against former Labour MP on social benefits scandal
Silvio Grixti, a former Labour MP and doctor, is set to face court charges later this month related to his involvement in a social benefits scandal. After months of investigations, the police have formally filed charges, and the arraignment is scheduled for March 22 before Magistrate Leonard Caruana, as confirmed by senior government sources. Grixti will be among five individuals facing criminal charges, according to sources. The others include Roger Agius, a 45-year-old from Luqa, Emmanuel Spagnol, a 69-year-old from Żejtun, 36-year-old Dustin Caruana, and 33-year-old Luke Saliba. Agius, Grixti’s driver, is believed by prosecutors to have played a significant role in the illicit scheme. Spagnol is suspected of acting as a facilitator in the racket, while Caruana is believed to have been involved as a runner. Saliba, on the other hand, is suspected of utilizing his IT skills to perpetrate the fraud. (Times of Malta)
PM announces pool of professionals to supprot citizens on construction sites
Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced that a call to establish a ‘pool’ of legal professionals and architects willing to provide their services pro bono for citizens addressing complaints regarding construction site abuses will be issued in the upcoming week. Speaking at a political event on Sunday, Abela focused his speech on the construction sector and the recently published public inquiry report on the tragic death of 20-year-old Jean Paul Sofia last Wednesday. He emphasized that citizens have the right to dwell in their homes peacefully, free from additional inconveniences caused by nearby construction sites. Abela further stressed the importance of citizens recognizing their voice, assuring them that their concerns will reach authorities who will take action on their behalf. (Maltatoday)
Sofia inquiry shows institutions are not working – Bernard Grech
Bernard Grech, the leader of the Nationalist Party, stated that the public inquiry into the demise of Jean Paul Sofia reveals a government in disarray, with nothing functioning properly and institutions failing to operate effectively. The inquiry highlighted that four agencies neglected to inspect the collapsed building, leading to the tragic death of Jean Paul Sofia. It exposed systemic failures that ultimately resulted in his demise. During a PN event in Sliema, Grech said that as Labour is in government, nothing will really change. (Newsbook)
