VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Government is holding individual talks with businesses affected by Storm Harry as it assesses the damage caused by the severe weather, Prime Minister Robert Abela said on Thursday.
Speaking to journalists a day after the storm battered several localities, Abela said homes, businesses, farmers and infrastructure were among those impacted.
He noted that the Agriculture Ministry has already called on farmers and fishers to report any losses they suffered.
With regard to businesses, Abela confirmed that discussions are under way on a case-by-case basis to evaluate damages and identify the necessary support.
The Prime Minister said a forum of permanent secretaries met on Wednesday to begin evaluating the extent of the damage and mapping out remedial action.
“We won’t leave anyone alone,” Abela said, adding that a public outreach exercise has already been carried out and negotiations have started.
Meanwhile, local councils have been urged to immediately report storm-related damage as authorities move to address widespread infrastructural harm.
The Public Works Department said Storm Harry caused severe damage across Malta and called on councils to submit reports, particularly where safety, accessibility or emergency risks are involved.
Infrastructure Minister Chris Bonett said the reporting system would allow repairs to be carried out with immediate effect, while Parliamentary Secretary Omar Farrugia thanked workers and councils assisting with repair efforts.
Authorities also appealed to the public to avoid closed coastal areas, as members of the Disciplined Forces responded to nearly 700 storm-related incidents amid Force 10 winds.
– Photo Malta Civil Protection Department –
(ITALPRESS).
