Deputy Prime Minister Chris Fearne has stood by ministers who were pictured at a crowded band club in Zebbug on Sunday, saying he believed them when they said that they observed Covid-19 rules.

At least five ministers – Ian Borg, Silvio Schembri, Roderick Galdes, Julia Farrugia Portelli and Aaron Farrugia – as well as Opposition leader Bernard Grech were at some point pictured inside the St Philip’s band club and took pictures with patrons.

A video shot on Sunday inside the same bar showed a huge crowd chanting and celebrating the feast of one of the town’s patron saints. It is unclear whether any of the MPs were inside the establishment at the time.

Speaking to The Malta Independent, Fearne said the ministers had already explained that they had respected Covid-19 rules, adding that “I stand by what they said.”

Transport Minister Ian Borg, who was pictured taking a selfie with people inside the club, refused to give a comment to this newsroom but earlier told Times of Malta that he had observed the public health rules.

"I observed the rules and visited clubs with other MPs, such as Opposition leader Bernard Grech whom I met and spoke with in the same club," he said. Parliamentary Secretary Roderick Galdes also insisted he had followed the rules and suggested unfair reporting by the media. He said that footage of him not wearing a mask did not show that he was also holding a drink at the time. He said he was not at the club when the celebratory video was shot.

Speaking to this newsroom, Opposition Leader Bernard Grech said he had not witnessed any irregularities.

“We must understand that as a country, if we do not give all our effort to beat this pandemic, I think it would be irresponsible. Now I understand that in moments of celebrations, moments of joy, people might not be as careful. That is why it is important that we politicians keep on sending the right message and making an effort, despite that there might be some who would ask you to remove the mask for a quick photo. You must keep on insisting that you shouldn’t do it. They might not like it, but It is our duty as politicians to follow the rules and ensure that others do the same.”