Since its establishment in 2006, the Benefit Fraud Investigations Department has collected around €31.7 million, the highest sum being €3.83 million in 2014.The Social Policy Ministry is yet to divulge how many social benefit abusers regularised their position after an ultimatum expired last February.
This newspaper has been chasing the figures since last June, but by the time of writing no replies had been received despite several reminders.
Since its establishment in 2006, the Benefit Fraud Investigations Department has recouped an estimated €31.7 million. The highest amount was recovered last year – €3.83 million. Nevertheless, Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia last January announced an amnesty period through which abusers were invited to “come clean” by refunding just 15 per cent of the amount defrauded.
Dr Farrugia warned that tough sanctions would apply for those who did not profit from the “one-time opportunity” by the end of February.
The money recouped would then be used to extend certain benefits, including patients suffering from ME, a chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia, who at present did not receive any form of assistance, the minister had said.
Dr Farrugia had refuted criticism that the terms of the scheme were too lenient, arguing this was the most efficient way to crackdown on rampant abuse of taxpayers’ money.
According to Dr Farrugia, such cases take years to be traced and in many cases the likelihood of recouping all the money was very low. Nevertheless, he had pledged to recruit more inspectors to beef up enforcement.
Nine months down the line, however, the ministry has failed to give feedback on the scheme.
Last June this newspaper asked the ministry how many abusers had come forward to regularise their position and the amount of money recouped. This newspaper also asked what action was taken against defiant abusers who were still defrauding the State. A ministry spokeswoman promised to come back with the replies. None have been received.
keith.micallef@timesofmalta.com