Court expert asks for more time to compile report

A court expert appointed to investigate the drainage situation in St Julians/Balluta area yesterday asked the court for more time to complete his task.

On August 30, Magistrate Jacqueline Padovani appointed Valerio Schembri to examine the situation at Balluta Bay and compile a report as part of the court case initiated by the Health Department against Water Services Corporation chairman Michael Falzon.

WSC is being charged with allowing a stoppage in a main sewer that led to drainage seeping into Balluta Bay. The bay was closed for bathing on August 13 when drainage was noticed leaking into the sea. It was reopened on August 29 after tests showed it was safe again. But on Tuesday, the Health Department issued another warning closing the bay to bathers.

The magistrate had appointed the expert following an onsite inquiry after officials from the WSC and the Health Department could not agree whether or not there was a blockage in manholes leading to the sewage system.

Mr Schembri explained he needed more time to compile all the technical evidence and carry out any tests before he could compile a final report to be exhibited in court.

The magistrate put off the case to October 2.