The Labour Party today said that the government’s energy plan is helping economic growth and this is of benefit to Maltese families.

Addressing a press conference, Family and Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia said the government was receiving excellent ratings from companies like Standard & Poor’s, and that reduction in energy tariffs had left €80 million in the economy.

He also criticised the PN for having said that such a reduction would not be possible. The minister mentioned that changing to gas meant cleaner air.

Labour MP Charles Mangion said Standard & Poor’s praised the government’s decision to switch from heavy fuel oil to gas.

PN statement

In response, a PN statement read that the party will, should they be elected, purchase electricity from the cheapest supplier, with the price difference being passed to the consumer.

“The PN understands that Prime Minister Joseph Muscat is angry with this pledge, as it will disrupt his plan for the country to tie itself to purchasing electricity for 12 years from electrogas with a price that is double what is currently paid through the Interconnector.” The PN argued that purchasing electricity at double the price is not in the public interest.

“It would be better for Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia to solve the social housing problem, rather than try and convince the PN to purchase energy at a high price.”

“After four years of this being in Michael Farrugias hands, there are thousands of people looking for a roof to put over their heads, and thousands of others in a situation where they cannot afford a place to live.”