Nationalist Party Leader Adrian Delia this afternoon slammed Health Minister Chris Fearne for the way he spoke about the government’s long-term plans for Mount Carmel Hospital.

Speaking in front of the hospital in Attard, Delia argued that the government “practically abandoned Mount Carmel” throughout the years. Stating that “behind Mount Carmel’s walls there are people,” Delia slammed Fearne for having a long-term plan as opposed to a short-term plan.

The Malta Independent today reported Minister Fearne saying the government’s plan for Mount Carmel Hospital is for it to be ‘practically on par’ with Mater Dei by 2023, and that the budget for the well-needed renovation of the hospital will increase tenfold over the coming years.

“After all that has been happening (over the past weeks and months), the government will not be doing anything now,” said Delia. “We expect a lot from the government, not only action in ten years time, but now.” He added that Fearne “spoke about buildings not people.”

The party leader went on to say that the Nationalist Party is currently working on a plan to campaign against intolerance towards people with mental health conditions and to decrease the stigma, as well as making society more inclusive and accessible.  “The way forward is investing in community,” Delia said, stating that the government has not “added one centre” since they have been in government.

When asked by the media regarding shortcomings by the PN within the sector in the past, Delia said that the focus should be on what we are doing now and in the future.