The buck stops here

The Public Service Commission is a state run department. In its’ mission statement it states that appointments to the public service should be made through “an efficient public appointment process which upholds the principles of merit and equity”. This government body has now officially revoked the appointment, since the appointee did not meet the requirements necessary for the post.

Responsibility for this selection procedure lies squarely on the Minister’s shoulders. The Minister for Health, Joe Cassar cannot shift accountability in this instance. Minister Joe Cassar is ultimately responsible for the actions of his Ministry and he has the duty to ensure the eligibility and competence of all medical consultants.

This lax supervision of appointments had enabled the selection of Minister Cristina’s son-in-law as a Medical Consultant.  The system  gives a clear cause for abuse. In fact, this person was not even eligible for this position as a consultant. His appointment as an ophthalmologist has since been revoked by the PSC after it gave the appointee every opportunity to present his case.

The opposition’s claim that there was foul play in the selection of medical consultants has been completely justified. The actions of the Minister, Joe Cassar and those of the Prime Minister, especially their silence on this matter, are in no way excusable.