The PN is urging the government to take concrete action to help Maltese companies affected by the Libyan crisis including by setting up a restructuring fund.

Shadow economy minister Claudio Grech said yesterday the PN would like Malta Enterprise to be more proactive in assisting Maltese businessmen who faced difficulties due to the situation in Libya.

Noting that such businessmen had already encountered similar situations in the past, when the government had given them all the necessary assistance, the present crisis would last longer and the government should have a plan to address the situation.

Mr Grech said Malta Enterprise should immediately set up a restructuring fund aimed at helping Maltese businesses in Libya adapt to the new situation and save as much as possible any ongoing business in the North African country.

The PN is also proposing the setting up of a mechanism aimed at safeguarding the assets of Maltese companies in Libya.

The ongoing crisis has seen Maltese businesses with significant interests in Libya suffer many losses not only in assets but also in opportunities and trade.

Most of the Maltese firms there have either suspended or even halted operations. The PN has accused the government of doing little so far to help these businesses cope with the situation.

PN public administration and government investments spokesman Ċensu Galea suggested that a specific office – similar to a one stop shop – should be opened to help Maltese businessmen in Libya.

The office should be able to coordinate all the activities related to the restructuring fund.

IT and gaming spokesman Kristy Debono said assistance should also be given to workers who used to work in Libya and suddenly found themselves jobless.