Opposition energy spokesman Joe Mizzi claimed yesterday that last Wednesday, BWSC personnel switched off the new extension of the Delimara power station and locked all computers. For nearly a week, the plant has been idle.

Speaking during the adjournment, Mr Mizzi said that the situation seems to have emanated from a lack of agreement between Enemalta Corporation and BWSC regarding reliability tests. He said that he had asked the Auditor General to delve into the issue as soon as possible to avoid the people being burdened with undue costs. The people, who were being left in the dark, could not afford to pay for the mistakes of others.

Mr Mizzi said he hoped that Malta would not be left with a power station which could not be commissioned. Apart from the fact that this had already been paid for, it would also mean the continued use of the Marsa plant with resultant fines by the EU and a heavier fuel bill.

The Opposition would not be responsible, he said, if it did raise these questions when both the Government and Enemalta Corporation had kept mum. Those responsible should be held accountable.