I am disappointed at the way some large Maltese companies behave towards EU residents in Malta.

Not so long ago I walked into the GO outlet at the Pama shopping complex and asked to subscribe to a new plan that included a ‘free’ handset.

The representative discussed with me the best options and said I would have to go back the next day so they could run a credit check, noting it was standard procedure.

The next day I went there, chose the phone and the representative then called “Mr Sergio” over the phone who, apparently, said that only Maltese residents was entitled to a handset with the plan. Disgusted, I left the shop and posted my experience on Facebook.

Many people supported me and others highlighted many previous complaints and petitions to the EU with regard to discrimination in Malta based on nationality.

A GO representative messaged me on Facebook and offered assistance. The same person got back to me three days later saying I could have a GO plan but no handset. He insisted this had nothing to do with nationality but was only business procedure.

After having been a customer for two years, then, maybe, other options can be discussed. This was even more humiliating than being discriminated against as I now was being treated like a stupid person. Both on their website and Facebook, GO constantly promote their plans inclusive of ‘free’ or discounted handsets.

I am not willing to let this go and I will refer the case to the EU hoping that, one day, they will have enough petitions to seriously look into the Maltese way of treating legal residents who respect the laws and customs and pay as much taxes as anyone else but are then considered to be second-class consumers.