SMS said the issue was over the IRISL controversy when Labour Party Leader Alfred Sant accused Foreign Minister John Dalli of involvement in the selection of a local representative agency for the Iranian transhipment line to the detriment of SMS.
“Contrary to what was stated during the programme, SMS confirms that it has vast experience in the shipping and container business. SMS has been an active shipping agency for over 70 years,” the statement read.
It continued to say that SMS had made a statement to Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi, providing him with the relevant documentation. The company also denied passing any documentation or having held any discussions with the Malta Labour Party, but confirmed that the facts as disclosed were substantially correct.
“SMS has produced evidence to prove that it has indeed been the agent for IRISL for over 25 years. This agency was further confirmed by IRISL in relation to the Freeport operation on 17 March following agreement on financial and operational matters. Consequently, SMS continued in its duties as agent according to its mandate,” the statement said.
The agency said it strongly objected to Mr Dalli’s allegation of it having favoured the MLP financially in any way. It said it did not wish to be involved in matters that were of a political nature and as such will not be responding to other statements. It however reserved its rights accordingly.
Meanwhile, in a press statement late last night, Mr Dalli said that as so far as he knows, there is a difference between the container business and transshipment operations.
He said that according to SMS adverts published in the press, it is clear that SMS would need to create a new organisation to operate the contract it was bidding for. He also said that contrary to what SMS wants to make believe, it was the company that passed on information to Dr Sant.
Regarding relations between SMS and IRISL, Mr Dalli said that he relies on the letter sent by IRISL to SMS which contradicts what SMS is trying to show.
Mr Dalli said he strongly objected to the many allegations and lies that have been said about him by SMS.