Former minister John Dalli has instituted legal proceedings against Stetse Zoodsma in representation of Simed International bv, Frank Farrugia in representation of Alcom Enterprises Co Ltd, local agents for Simed and against Joseph Zahra holding them responsible for damages suffered as a consequence of the publication of a report which implied corruption and irregularities in the granting of the contract for medical equipment at Mater Dei Hospital, when Mr Dalli was finance minister.
Mr Dalli said the allegations and accusations contained in that false report had caused him substantial and irreparable damages personally, professionally and politically.
It had provoked pressure on him from various directions, leading him to resign his ministerial post on July 3, 2004.