The government is reportedly considering terminating its contract with the company responsible for the Paola health hub, following numerous delays that have stalled the facility’s opening.

Despite the completion of construction works, the contractor has failed to meet 17 crucial deadlines related to certification and quality control, leaving the state unable to take over the building.

Sources who spoke to Times of Malta revealed that the Ministry for Health has engaged audit firm Grant Thornton to assess the potential consequences of ending the contract.

This decision came after a €20,000 direct order was issued to the audit firm in April, and was recently made public in the Government Gazette. Grant Thornton has been tasked with providing a detailed analysis to help the authorities make an informed decision.

The situation has now escalated to the courts, with arbitration proceedings underway between the government and the contractor. Submissions have been made, and a resolution is expected to be reached in the coming weeks.

This latest setback is part of a long history of challenges faced by the Paola health hub project. Initially announced over a decade ago, the project was delayed for years due to land ownership issues.

It was revived in 2017, with plans to develop the site of the former Paola boċċi club into a €39 million facility meant to serve nearly a third of Malta’s population. However, the project has been plagued by disputes over the tender process, further delaying its completion.

As it stands, the future of the Paola health hub remains uncertain, with significant implications for healthcare infrastructure in Malta.

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