Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi this morning insisted that the nomination of John Dalli to the European Commission was not a case of the government wanting to oust him from the Cabinet. He also warned that those expecting major changes through a Cabinet reshuffle were mistaken, because Malta needed stability.

Dr Gonzi said that three persons had been considered for the post - former Foreign Minister Michael Frendo, Malta's representative to the EU, Richard Cachia Caruana, and Mr Dalli, who had himself expressed an interest in taking up the post five years ago.

It was felt that there was need for a change even though the current Maltese commissioner, Joe Borg, had served with distinction.

Furthermore, Mr Cachia Caruana was performing a very important role in the EU and within the government, Dr Gonzi said, while praising Mr Cachia Caruana for his valuable service.

Dr Gonzi said that Mr Dalli had given sterling service to the country and he had no doubt that he would give a major contribution to the European Commission in view of his vast experience in economic and financial affairs, social policy and health.

Dr Gonzi said Mr Dalli would remain a minister until European Commission President Jose Manoel Barroso allocated him his responsibilities.

Current projects and reforms by the Ministry of Social Policy would be continued

The Prime Minister referred to claims that Mr Dalli was being kicked upstairs and said such interpretations were absolutely not the case and those making such claims were twisting the political scenario.

He said Mr Dalli's successor would be decided at a later stage, but people should not expect major changes through a reshuffle because the country needed stability.