The Opposition has expressed itself satisfied with measures being taken by the government to safeguard against the possible outbreak of ebola, which has already left 2,200 victims, mainly in Liberia and other west African countries. 

Health spokesman Claudio Grech told a press conference that even though the probability of such an outbreak in Malta was low as the incubation period was at most 21 days, Malta's proximity to Africa could not be ignored. He said that people working in immigration control, the army and the health sector, were the most exposed to risk.

Mr Grech said that a month ago he met government officials dealing with this issue and the standard procedures to be adopted were discussed. 

One of the concerns raised was how to deal with dead bodies at sea, which could be contaminated with the virus. The government took note of the concern and was addressing it, Mr Grech said.

He congratulated Ray Busuttil who was elected on the executive board of the World Health Organisation and said it was a pity that such a highly qualified and respected professional was recently removed from health superintendent. This decision, he said, was a mistake and he urged the government to make better use of Dr Busuttil.

Regarding the controversy of the Mater Dei concrete structures which were found to be weak, Mr Grech said that government and Opposition needed to be on the same side. He said that whoever had certified the structure needed to shoulder responsibility.

The PN spokesman said that politicians should not take sides, but ensure that taxpayers' money was well spent. This issue should have been discussed openly in the Parliamentary Health Committee, but the Opposition's request was turned down, Mr Grech said.