Gravy-train news: Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation chairman and his “legal services”

A few days ago I reported that former Labour Party president Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, who receives money as chairman of the Grand Harbour Regeneration Corporation – a grace-and-favour appointment made by the incoming Labour government, also receives money through the good offices of the Prime Minister for “legal services” to the state utilities billing agency, ARMS.

Last year alone, Zrinzo Azzopardi received €20,089 for his “legal services” to that government organisation.

Today I can report that the former Labour president is also receiving public funds through the Health Minister, who pays him €25 an hour for “legal services” to the Health Ministry and its various departments.

This emerges through a question which the Shadow Minister for Health, Claudette Buttigieg, asked in parliament. Christopher Fearne, the Health Minister, avoided saying how much he actually paid Zrinzo Azzopardi. The hourly rate tells us nothing except the fact that he pays him. I have contacted Mrs Buttigieg who said that she will be asking a follow-up question for a more specific answer.

Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi (centre) with Cyrus Engerer (right) and Manuel Mallia in their more svelte days. All three of them are now fattening themselves in the public trough.