Clayton Bartolo Speaks Out After Resignation But Avoids Mentioning Scandal
Clayton Bartolo officially stepped down as Minister for Tourism and Public Cleanliness today and has released a statement addressing his decision.
The move follows weeks of controversy after a damning Standards Commissioner report.
In his resignation statement, Bartolo shared that he had spoken to Prime Minister Robert Abela and fulfilled a promise he made upon joining the Cabinet: to take political responsibility if his position became a distraction from the government’s work.
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“I am proud to leave behind a tourism sector that, thanks to the decisions we took in the most difficult moments, is today on solid foundations,” Bartolo said.
He highlighted the rapid recovery of Malta’s tourism industry post-pandemic, noting that this year is set to achieve record-breaking results.
Bartolo expressed pride in leading Malta’s tourism through a challenging period, emphasising investments in the country’s tourist offerings and education.
Despite addressing his resignation and achievements, Bartolo’s statement noticeably avoided any reference to the controversy surrounding the consultancy role awarded to his wife. The issue, which sparked calls for his resignation, remains unaddressed in his remarks.
Ian Borg will be replacing Bartolo as Tourism Minister as Prime Minister Robert Abela told the media that Bartolo was kicked out of the Labour Party’s parliamentary group due to “different circumstances”. Bartolo will continue to serve in parliament as an independent MP.
What do you make of Bartolo’s statement?
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