In reply to a statement issued by Malta Labour Party spokesman Karl Chircop, the DOI said that since all residents at St Vincent de Paule Home receive second level treatment, the rate of contribution from the residents’ pensions, social assistance or bonus amounted to 80 per cent.

The second level involves more intensive treatment. Apart from receiving medical services, these residents receive physiotherapy, podology, dentistry, occupational therapy and speech therapy services and participate in outings.

It is calculated that a bed at this residence costs Lm20 a day or Lm600 a month. This amount does not include medicines given to the elderly.