A former permanent secretary has asked for the Auditor General to investigate allegations that he approved thousands of euros in overtime payments for his wife and created managerial posts for her.

The case surfaced in a parliamentary question that asked whether Chris Ciantar was being investigated for “abusive behaviour”.

Dr Ciantar’s wife was employed with the rural affairs ministry, where he served as permanent secretary. Speaking to Times of Malta, Dr Ciantar rejected the allegations.

He has written to the Principal Permanent Secretary, Mario Cutajar, requesting that he ask the Auditor General to investigate the procedures involved in any overtime or promotions concerning his wife.

The parliamentary questions by Labour backbencher Carmelo Abela were addressed to Environment Minister Leo Brincat.

Mr Abela asked whether the police were called in to investigate what he termed as Dr Ciantar’s abusive behaviour.

He also asked whether the minister would investigate the creation of managerial posts by Dr Ciantar, such as that for the initiative Naturalment Malti, which was filled by his wife.

Mr Brincat told Parliament a reply will be given in another sitting.

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