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Watch: ‘Government’s €400 Million Scandal Equals 80 Years Of L-Istrina Donations’ – Bernard Grech

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During the ultimate televised debate between Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition leader Bernard Grech before Saturday’s elections, the PN leader addressed the Vitals concession and the €400 million “stolen” through the fraudulent hospital deal, stating that this is “80 times the amount collected in the yearly L-Istrina marathon”.

“Each year, we gather €5 million through Istrina to support those in need, a noble effort indeed. But to put it in perspective, €400 million dwarfs this sum, equating to 80 years’ worth of L-Istrina donations,” Grech said.

“We fought to recover the hospitals for your benefit. Adrian Delia and I took legal action to reclaim the €400 million from the hospitals deal, all for you,” the PN leader stated.

He also highlighted the Nationalist Party’s efforts to push for a public inquiry into Jean Paul Sofia’s death. “Abela accused Isabelle Bonnici [Sofia’s mother] of being manipulated by us. When we advocate on your behalf, they label us as negative.”

“This means that when you seek free medication and are told it’s unavailable, forcing you to purchase it, and you bring this issue to us—are you being negative?

“When we relay your concerns, are we being negative?” Grech questioned.

“When you need surgery and are repeatedly sent home because the hospital claims there’s no space for you—despite millions being spent on healthcare—it’s not negativity we’re pointing out. It’s the reality you face when they haven’t invested enough in your health, despite the millions of euros that were spent.”

 

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“When we speak out, we’re accused of being negative. Yet, the real issue is you having to turn to private clinics or endure long waits for essential operations.”

He then highlighted the plight of many who are teetering on the brink of poverty, saying that when the Opposition raises these concerns, they are swiftly branded as “negative.”

Grech went on to say that people are now facing a reality where they are effectively working six-day weeks due to endless hours lost in traffic. Additionally, he pointed out the struggle of Gozitans who reside in Gozo but work in Malta, effectively working seven-day weeks. He highlighted how they endure gruelling commutes, spending two hours daily to catch the “antiquated ferry that the government has left them with”.

Do you agree with Bernard Grech’s statements?

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Clara is a massive foodie who recently graduated from the University of Malta as a lawyer. Her biggest passions in life are the performing arts, which she pursues professionally when she’s not too busy writing.

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