A policeman reinstated after an absence of 11 years and “declared fit to carry out police duties” has a blue badge that is issued to people with disabilities, the Times of Malta is informed.

Edward Falzon, who left the force in the rank of a constable and was promoted to sergeant when he returned, got the blue badge last year, that is, before his reinstatement. This newspaper is informed the blue badge is valid until 2020.

Edward Falzon left the force as a constable and was promoted to sergeant when he returned.Edward Falzon left the force as a constable and was promoted to sergeant when he returned.

According to strict conditions set by the Commission for People with Disabilities, the blue badge is only issued on the strength of a medical certificate declaring that the applicant suffers from permanent disabilities and cannot walk properly.

Contacted by this newspaper, Mr Falzon admitted he had serious mobility problems as he suffered from “big pains in his knees”. However, he would not say whether he is in possession of a blue badge. “It’s not your business. That is only my concern,” he replied.

The police skirted questions on how it was possible that Mr Falzon was declared fit for police duties when his mobility is restricted.

Questions sent to the Police Commissioner on whether the grievances unit, which gave the green light for Mr Falzon’s reinstatement, was aware he had mobility problems and was in possession of a blue badge remained unanswered at the time of writing.

The grievances unit was set up by the government soon after Labour’s return to power.

A police spokesman noted it was the grievances unit that recommended Mr Falzon’s reinstatement and promotion. “The Police Force is extraneous to this unit,” he added.

It’s not your business. That is only my concern

Asked on how was it possible that a person already holding a disability badge could serve as a police officer, the spokesman replied: “He [Mr Falzon] was declared medically fit as per reinstatement procedures for ex-officers rejoining the police service.” The spokesman declined to name the members of the grievances unit.

The Times of Malta reported last week that Mr Falzon, known among colleagues as It-Tenur and who declares himself a staunch Labourite, was reinstated in the force even though he had publicly derided former police com­missioner Michael Cassar in Facebook posts.

Mr Falzon publicly thanked Prime Minister Joseph Muscat for his promotion.

Upon his reinstatement, Mr Falzon was assigned duties at the airport VIP section.

ivan.camilleri@timesofmalta.com

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