OPM chief of staff Keith Schembri, described by the Prime Minister as being instrumental for the investment made in Malta by Crane Currency 18 months ago, was absent this morning when Joseph Muscat paid a visit to its premises in Hal Far.

The embattled OPM chief of staff is in the middle of a magisterial inquiry which was launched after Opposition Leader Simon Busuttil presented what he said was evidence that he took kickbacks from Nexia BT’s Brian Tonna for sale of citizenship.

Schembri, who made his appearance in the political arena just before the 2013 election, has been completely absent from Labour’s campaign this time round. His failure to accompany the PM on a visit to a company that, according to Dr Muscat, came to Malta thanks to him (Schembri) is a clear indication that the OPM chief of staff is avoiding the media.

In September 2015, Dr Muscat signed an agreement worth $100 million with Boston-based currency printer Crane Currency to set up a factory in Malta. It is expected to employ some 500 people.

The Opposition objected over claims that Keith Schembri, through his company Kasco Ltd, will receive commissions from Crane Currency over the purchase of printing machinery, of which Kasco is the agent. Mr Schembri strongly denied this as a possibility and said that at best maintenance works on the machinery could take place.

Apart from Crane Currency, Dr Muscat, together with Economy Minister Chris Cardona, also paid a visit to three factories in the industrial estate in Hal Far.

At Crane Currency, he announced that the construction process of the factory will be completed by end of this year. The company is expected to start its local operation in November.

He first visited BDI, a company which supplies international brands like Nike and Tommy Hilfiger to the African continent. The company so far produces three containers each day but as Dr Muscat explained, the company will be soon producing seven containers each day.

Dr Muscat also visited Metallform Limited which produces drips for young patients. He explained that in a couple of months, the company will expand twice. The company will also be able to employ 70 new employees.