Update 2 - Summary of considerations and conclusions included in pdf below -

The Permanent Commission Against Corruption has found no evidence up to the level required by criminal law that could lead to the conclusion that Parliamentary Secretary Ian Borg or anyone else had carried out, tried to carry out or was in an any way an accomplice in any crime.

Dr Borg had been in the spotlight over his purchase of a house near Rabat and the way permits had been granted for development there.

The Ombusdman had found that Mepa permits were granted by 'devious' means and he handed his report to the commission for further investigation. 

In its report the commission said it endorsed the Ombudsman’s report because his Office was superior to it, with the Ombudsman being a constitutional post.  

Dr Borg in a Facebook post said the Commission, presided by Judge Lawrence Quintano had concluded that he did 'nothing illegal or criminal' regarding what will become his residence. 

He said he had been attacked in a disgusting manner for most of the year but he had stayed focused on his duties, although his fiancee' and parents had worried.

Still, he said, he was forgiving all those who made malicious allegations against him or broadcast such allegations, including the leader of the opposition.

See summary of commission's considerations and conclusions on pdf below. 

PN REACTION

In a reaction, the Nationalist Party said the prime minister was trying to shirk responsibility to sack Dr Borg. 

It was clear to everyone, except Dr Muscat, that Dr Borg should be removed after the Ombudsman found that devious methods were used in the granting of a Mepa permit for his property.

Had somebody in the PN been involved, Dr Muscat would have repeatedly demanded resignations. But because a parliamentary secretary was involved, it was business as usual for the prime minister because he used a different yardstick.  

PL: PN BUBBLE HAS BEEN BURST

The Labour Party said the commission's report meant another PN bubble had been burst.

This case, it said had been used by the leader of the opposition to smear Dr Borg and the government. 

But the three-man commission, including a magistrate chosen by the opposition, had concluded that no one had made abusive use of his position to get something he was not entitled for. 

All the witnesses had denied having been approached or influenced by the parliamentary secretary and there was no evidence on which proceedings could be launched against anyone.  

Attached files

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