Steward Appeals Damning Court Verdict, Requests European Court Of Justice Ruling
Steward Health Care has officially filed an appeal against the Maltese Court’s judgement on the hospitals’ concession agreement, requesting a European Court of Justice (ECJ) Preliminary Ruling.
“The company emphatically rejects the narrative of the judge’s findings in relation to SHCM, an assessment that was made with no basis in evidence,” Steward Health Care said in a statement.
“This narrative is erroneous and could have been disproven had SHCM simply been asked to supply evidence on these counts to court – a request that was never made.”
“This failing – along with most others present in the judgement – presents major concerns for the rule of law in Malta and has serious implications for the future of foreign investment in the country.”
“Steward has filed, together with the appeal, an ECJ Preliminary Ruling request from the High Court.”
It continued to say that while SHCM has no position on or knowledge of events that took place while the concession was being awarded, the company is now claiming that it has supplied significant documentary and other evidence to counter any claims made in its respect as part of its appeal.
“This evidence, which includes relevant interactions with the Government of Malta and documents outlining how SHCI transformed a bankrupt enterprise into a professionally managed operation with a sound financial footing, will help to inform the understanding of the Maltese people about the concession.”
SHCM also noted that it kept the US Embassy and State Department – which was on several occasions present at negotiations on the concession terms – fully informed at all times of all relevant events and engagements with the Government of Malta.
Furthermore, it expressed that it remains committed to operating at all times in accordance with its highest professional standards and values.
“Our priority was and remains always the provision of optimal healthcare to the communities and patients we are entrusted to serve.”
This comes after Steward previously said that it will be appealing the Court’s decision, which led to the annulment of the contract.
What do you make of Steward’s appeal?
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