John Consiglio writes...

The recent demise of Francis Bonello has denied Malta of one of its most exemplary and knowledgeable civil servants. I consider it an honour to have worked with him.

For many years, Francis was the head of the capital transfer duty department and his sense of loyalty and hard work there were a big example to all who worked with him.

After his retirement over 10 years ago, Francis continued to serve with me on the income tax board of appeals, which I chaired. He was a shining example of integrity, total independence and precision in terms of both procedural correctness and attention to detail.

Francis knew fiscal law very well. He regularly kept a comprehensive collection of all relevant legislation, including secondary. His questioning to appellants and defendants at appeals was always aimed solely at painting detailed pictures of all circumstances affecting both the fisco and the citizens.

He was also endowed with certain human qualities that endeared him to us who worked with him. Punctuality was for him both a duty and a necessity for productivity. His command of the Maltese language was outstanding and, together, we would review over and over again sentences to ensure the correctness of all decisions.

With him and Lino Callus, the appeals board was not only always highly productive (indeed, the board never really had any long-outstanding appeals) but was also always totally correct in its operations and decisions, such that the few appellants who might have chosen to exercise their right to resort to the Court of Appeal on points of law often ended up being unsuccessful and the original board decision being completely confirmed. Indeed, Francis helped in an extraordinary manner in ensuring that all citizens had access to fiscal fairness and utmost efficiency of administrative law.

Francis oozed that particular type of serenity with life and nature that seems a hallmark of the people of Dingli.

The humorous side of him made all those around him always happy and well disposed towards all tasks in hand. He was a great friend and helper to many people.

To his son Anthony and all his relatives, I extend my deepest condolences. He will be greatly missed.