A recently concluded magisterial inquiry into the Vitals-Steward hospitals deal cost around €10 million, Justice Minister Jonathan Attard revealed today.

This means it could well be the most expensive magisterial inquiry in Malta’s history.

When the €7.5 million cost of the Pilatus Bank magisterial inquiry was revealed in 2021, it was described as the most expensive by far.

Interviewed by Andrew Azzopardi on 103 Malta’s Heart, Attard said the money spent on this inquiry shows how willing the government is to offer the judiciary all the necessary resources.

However, he criticised magistrate Gabriella Vella for concluding the inquiry on the eve of the MEP and local council elections and said it is the government’s duty to speak out when trust in the judiciary is at risk.