Former Police Commissioner John Rizzo this afternoon refused to take back his words about official police boats not being used for swimming trips during his tenure.

Asked about the photos published by Times of Malta showing police entertaining foreign cadets on boats in 2010 and 2012, Mr Rizzo said questions on the matter should be sent through the Home Affairs Ministry.

Asked whether he still thought he should have said these things did not happen under his watch, he said: "Yes."

Now director of the Civil Protection Department, Mr Rizzo was questioned during a press conference at CPD's headquarters where 10 new emergency response cars were unveiled.

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Manuel Mallia said it was true that questions are best directed through him. However, he stressed that he did not want to see police boats being used for entertainment or sunbathing.

He highlighted the fact that this behaviour happened in the past but said this did not matter. What mattered was that it should not happen again and this was why he demanded an explanation from Police Commissioner Peter Paul Zammit who subsequently reprimanded four officers.

Dr Mallia said the Government had started an €8 million investment plan for the CPD to replace some 50 vehicles, all of which were more than 15 years old. He said the previous Government did not invest enough in the department but this Government was committed to do so and also wanted to make sure workers were happy with their conditions.

Mr Rizzo spoke about other shortcomings in the service and asked for fire stations to be considered for areas like Sliema, St Julian's, Qormi and Birkirkara.

The cars unveiled were ordered for €120,000 by the previous Government.