Judge Depasquale appeals for ‘media savvy’ courts, deals with ‘often unjust criticism against judicial system’ while vowing to ‘serve to ensure that citizens feel that justice is done’
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“I’m here to serve and, as such, I promise to do my utmost to ensure that the citizen feels that justice is being done, and that this is achieved in the most efficient and effective manner, whilst bearing in mind that every citizen is a human being to be treated with respect and loyalty.” This was the resounding promise done by Judge Francesco Depasquale in his inaugural session, held on Friday.
In his address, Judge Depasquale reiterated the need for the Courts to be “media savvy.”
This could be achieved through the setting up of a communications office within the law courts and, more importantly, an educational campaign on the laws, judgments and court operations in general.
Speaking about the media criticism of the judiciary system, Depasquale suggested a lengthy educational campaign to help people understand laws, decisions made by the Courts and its general operations, along with the setting up of a communications office within the law courts.
“Education is the secret to everything, and that is why we should create a method whereby it will be promulgated and strengthened.”
In a message to journalists, he said that the need for ethical journalism is important, particularly in a world filled with misinformation and lies.
Addressing magistrates, his colleagues and friends, Judge Depasquale highlighted the “difficult and challenging” work magistrates did, pointing out that they handled 99 per cent of the criminal caseload.
These members of the judiciary worked “in silence without much fanfare and without expecting any gratitude,” often ending up “threatened and intimidated in public,” the judge went on.
New judge Francesco Depasquale insisted that he would not dwell upon the “continuous attacks” against the judicial system, which were “often unjust and incorrect” on this occasion, adding that he preferred to view the event as a ‘celebration’.
Friday’s sitting was officially introduced by a speech delivered by Vincent Galea, as vice president of the Chamber of Advocates and former colleague of the new Judge, having both graduated in 1996.
Dr Galea said that Mr Justice Depasquale’s experience as a member of the judiciary was “tried and tested many times over,” praising the new Judge for his impartiality and efficiency when serving as magistrate.
