Former Nationalist Minister and European Commissioner John Dalli, who was entrusted by the government to draw up a report on the operations and management of Mater Dei Hospital, would not reveal whether he would continue to advise the government on health-related matters in the future.

Contacted by this newspaper on Wednesday and questioned whether he was asked by the government to continue serving in the role as advisor, or whether he has called it a day, now that the report on Mater Dei has been concluded, Mr Dalli replied: “I will let you know next week”.

This newspaper also asked Mr Dalli if he has any advice to give to the Prime Minister on who would be the right person to take up the role of health minister, since according to media reports, Health Minister Godfrey Farrugia is set to lose the portfolio, and may be moved to social policy. Mr Dalli replied: “Do you honestly think that I am going to suggest to you who may be the ideal person for the job?” 

Reports in other sections of the media have suggested that the Prime Minister is set to take over health-related matters while plans to appoint a parliamentary secretary for health are in the pipeline. The General Workers’ Union newspaper last week led with a story titled ‘health is a priority’ which further indicates Dr Farrugia will be shifted.

As suspense grows about who will be moved in the Cabinet reshuffle, the Office of the Prime Minister has remained mum on the date of the reshuffle.

Earlier this week, Labour MP Marlene Farrugia, partner of the Health Minister, expressed her concern about the Caninet reshuffle suspense, which she claimed “is causing much anguish and uncertainty among the people in the ministry of health and other ministries.”

In a Facebook post, Dr Farrugia questioned if the prolongation of the reshuffle is necessary.

"I cannot but share with you dear friends, the uncertainty and state of anguish the people in the ministry of health and other ministries are going through.

"It is the prerogative of the PM to reshuffle as often as necessary and as he deems fit, but as an MP I cannot but feel that the suspense is taking its toll on ministers, and their staff, and obviously their performance....”

Dr Farrugia has openly declared that this is her last legislature in office and that she will not accept any government post in this legislature.

Despite her stand that she will not hold another government post, she said that she still felt that she should speak out against this unnecessary period of uncertainty.

Informed sources have told this newspaper that Parliamentary Secretary Owen Bonnici is likely to be promoted to minister.