I refer to the article ‘Official chose not to call police on alleged bribery’ (April 20). The impression that the police were unaware of the allegations or that the Foundation for Tomorrow’s Schools did not report the allegations to the police is untrue.

As has already been explained, when the allegations surfaced, the Education Ministry directed both sides, foundation officials and Giovann Vella, to go tothe police. The FTS officials were very clear in the police report, which included all the allegations levelled against FTS. This report, which included the allegations, was forwarded to the permanent secretary soon after it was submitted as evidence that action as requested was taken.

On Monday, the permanent secretary made a follow-up by writing to the Police Commissioner following court proceedings, wherein defence counsel claimed that the police had concluded their case.

The ministry cooperated fully with the case, including in court proceedings, and takes comfort that steps were immediately taken to notify the authorities as soon as the allegations surfaced.

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