Manuel Mallia's former Chief of Staff, Silvio Scerri, told The Malta Independent yesterday that he is eyeing a number of opportunities in the private sector.
Mr Scerri confirmed that he was no longer part of the Home Affairs Ministry after the dismissal of Manuel Mallia by the Prime Minister on Tuesday. "I was part of the Minister's secretariat not a government employee. When new ministers are appointed they bring in their own people of trust." Prime Minister Joseph Muscat said on Tuesday that the new Home Affairs Minister, Carmelo Abela, would have his own Chief of Staff.
When asked if he would occupy a different role at the same Ministry, Mr Scerri said: "not that I know of." He said this was a period in his life which is now over.
"There are many opportunities in the private sector and I am keeping my options open." Mr Scerri said he had vast experience in the private sector and mentioned a couple of posts he occupied in the past, including his chairmanship of MFCC. He did not mention Nexos - the lighting company he set up many years ago. Mr Scerri renounced his directorship in the company shortly before joining Mallia's ministry.
"For the time I am on leave, resting at home. I think I deserve some time with my family at Christmas."
Justice Minister Owen Bonnici yesterday dismissed speculation that Mr Scerri would be given a prominent post at the Public Broadcasting Service. Dr Bonnici, who is now responsible for PBS, said he had not been approached about a job by Mr Scerri and he had not approached Mr Scerri either.
The Justice Minister said, however, that the government is open to working with anyone with the right qualities who wishes to contribute to the sector.
In the meantime, Manuel Mallia's Communications Officer, Ramona Attard, said that until now there are no indications that she will remain part of the Home Affairs Ministry. "This is a transition period and I have no idea what will come next." Ms Attard, a former PL media journalist, said the incident happened very recently and she is still deciding what to do next.