Calls for full publication of magisterial inquiries on unnatural deaths
Isabelle Bonnici, mother of Jean Paul Sofia, who tragically lost his life in a construction site collapse in Kordin in 2022, has made a direct appeal to Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech to amend the laws governing inquiries into unnatural deaths. In a statement released by Ghal Jean Paul, Bonnici continued her relentless pursuit of justice and truth, emphasizing that her fight extends beyond her son. Bonnici stated that unless the victim’s relatives decide otherwise, the results of the inquiries should be made public on accessible platforms, free of charge. Speaking in Parliament, Justice Minister Jonathan Attard said that government is working on a reform so that relatives of a victim may receive information about the proceedings of a magisterial inquiry, where it is legally possible for this to happen. (The Malta Independent)
Admissions at health centres increase by 51% in two years
Emergency admissions at public health centres have risen by 51% between 2021 and 2023, according to data presented in parliament. In 2021, there were 325,873 emergency admissions, a figure that surged to 492,490 by 2023. The Paola health centre remained the busiest, recording 78,570 admissions in 2021, which increased to 134,610 over the two years. The largest growth in admissions was seen at the Bormla health centre, where emergency cases jumped from 13,001 to 27,785, reflecting a 113% increase. (Maltatoday)
PN supports stricter penalties for assault of public officers
Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, Darren Carabott, expressed his support on Monday for a bill proposing stricter penalties for those who assault public officers, including police personnel. However, he emphasised that penalties alone are insufficient to address the wider issues facing Malta’s police force. “The most effective crime deterrent is the penalty one might face,” Carabott stated during Monday’s parliamentary session. The bill follows an incident where two officers were assaulted while issuing a ticket for an illegally parked car in Hamrun. The suspects have since been brought to court. While endorsing the bill, Carabott raised concerns about the police force’s leadership and called for deeper reforms. (Times of Malta)
