Opposition available for discussions with government regarding justice reform

The PN has made itself available for discussions with the government regarding the reform of the justice administration, according to a statement it released this afternoon.

The statement makes reference to the Public Consultation document published on 31 May 2013 by the Commision of the Holistic Reform of Justice.

While noting the report included a number of proposals for change which are intended to address the problems which exist in the justice administration, PN said it was ready to discuss with the government any proposal which aims for the system to become more efficient and more transparent.

It said any change must be effected only after direct consultation and agreement with stakeholders, including the judiciary, lawyers, court workers, and all those who are involved in the administration.

PN insisted that for this to be achieved, care must be taken not to break any fundamental principles. Above all, it said, the independence of the judiciary must be safeguarded.

It also said it was available to discuss with the government ways by which the Maltese judiciary could be strengthened and helped to fulfill its duties, and to examine alternative systems by which members will be appointed to the judiciary. They also would like to discuss more effective systems which will not allow for abuse.

It said this report lists a number of proposals which had been put forward in the past by the Nationalist government and which were not supported by the Labour Opposition.