President George Abela's father, George has died, aged 84.

He passed away at Mater Dei Hospital at 12.30 pm. His wife Lucarda and the President were by his side.

Mr Abela's deteriorating condition meant that the President could not attend the funeral Mass for the Prime Minister's father, held this morning. Mrs Abela attended instead.

Mr Abela lived most of his life in Qormi and used to be a port worker.

The Nationalist and Labour parties, as well as Alternattiva Demokratika, expressed their condolences.

The PN said the late Mr Abela used to represent the genuine love of a father towards his children. Through personal sacrifices and hard work, he did his utmost for his children to live a better life and be of service to their country.

The PL said that Opposition leader Joseph Muscat personally contacted Dr Abela as soon as he heard the news to express his and his party's condolences.

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