‘Outrageous And Without Merit’: Steward Pledges To Fight Major Court Ruling
Steward Health Care Malta (SHCM) has hit out at today’s landmark court judgement, warning it presents “major concerns” for the rule of law in Malta.
“SHCM objects to today’s court judgement on the hospitals’ concession agreement and questions again the rule of law in Malta, an EU member state,” the statement reads.
“SHCM is considering its position and reserves the right to safeguard its interests in the appropriate legal fora and higher courts in Malta and internationally.”
“SHCM will pursue action contesting all allegations of wrongdoing raised in the court judgement, allegations we consider outrageous and without merit. From a preliminary review of the judgement, we believe there to be significant flaws in reasoning and award.”
PN MP Adrian Delia
“We believe that the judgement, which goes far beyond the court’s remit, presents major concerns for the rule of law in Malta and has serious implications for the future of foreign investment in the country.”
“While the legal, operational, and practical aspects of the consequences of the court’s judgement need to be assessed in detail and understood thoroughly, SHCM remains committed to operate at all times in accordance with its highest professional standards and values.”
“SHCM’s priority was and remains always the provision of optimal healthcare to the communities and patients we are entrusted to serve.“
In his ruling today, following a case filed by PN MP Adrian Delia, Judge Francesco Depasquale ordered the annulment of the deal and the return of the St Luke’s, Karin Grech and Gozo hospitals to the government, with all court costs to be borne by Steward Malta.
Depasquale was scathing in his assessment of Steward, ruling that the healthcare provider had displayed a lack of good faith when it convinced the government to insert a €100 million termination clause in the concession.
The judge warned that Steward had “reprehensibly and unjustifiably enriched itself” off the backs of the Maltese government and people.
He also questioned the government’s motivations, stating that “no one with Malta’s good at heart would have everted into such a deal unless taken in by fraud”.
Cover photo: Left: Judge Francesco Depasquale, Right: The Gozo General Hospital
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