The energy and health portfolios are diverse but face the same challenges – mainly that of a prehistoric system of management, according to Energy Minister Konrad Mizzi.

Asked how he would go about reconciling two mega portfolios as diverse as energy and health, Dr Mizzi explained that his role in the health ministry would be that of creating a management system.

He said he was aware that the health portfolio was rife with challenges but he was hopeful that he would see tangible improvements. Doctors, nurses and healthcare staff were not the problem, he added. The management system was.

“It’s all about striking a balance between what we term as ‘quick wins’ or high and quick impact projects, and longer term solutions.”

Since his new appointment was announced, Dr Mizzi immediately has asked for the list of patients placed in Mater Dei Hospital’s corridors, describing the bed shortage crisis as “unacceptable”. “I could not sleep on it. The situation is unacceptable. We must give the healthcare professionals the tools with which to work.”

He expressed confidence that the energy portfolio would retain its focus and will not be pushed aside by the complex health sector, pointing to the appointment of Mr Fearne, a paediatric surgeon, as parliamentary secretary.

“Chris Fearne is very well respected in the medical field. He knows the sector. Our technical people and healthcare professionals are brilliant – I am full of hope.”