Former Labour Minister Wistin Abela has passed away at the age of 80.

Mr Abela, who contested the Zejtun district, served in Parliament from 1966 to 1996. He was responsible for the inception of Air Malta and Xandir Malta, as well as the Ship Building. He also served as Finance Minister.

He was also MLP Deputy Leader between 1981 and 1982. 

In a statement the Labour Party saluted Mr Abela who, it said, worked hard for a better Malta. Mr Abela will be remembered for his commitment towards the setting up of Air Malta and as a Finance Minister. His loss is surely most felt in Zejtun - his hometown.