Patrick Costello, who served as the chief of staff of European Commissioner for environment, maritime affairs and fisheries Karmenu Vella, has resigned. He has been replaced by Jurgen Muller, The Malta Independent has learnt.

The chief of staff served for less than 10 months with Mr Vella. He started his role in November 2014 and resigned last month.

Previously, he served as deputy head of Cabinet of European Commission vice-president Margot Wallstrom.

It is understood Mr Costello returned to his former job at the European External Action Service – EEAS.