New section within appeals court established

A new section of the superior court of appeal has been set up in order to allow it to process more cases than it currently does.

In a statement, the Justice ministry said that the new section was needed since there were significantly more cases being decided by the civil court of first instance.

Currently there are two sections of the superior court of appeal, each composed of two judges, as well as the chief justice.

The ministry said the new section would be composed of two judges presided by a senior judge, with assignment of duties remaining the responsibility of the chief justice.

Justice minister Owen Bonnici said the new system would result in citizens seeking justice benefitting from a more efficient and effective system.