Minister for Justice, Equality and Governance Edward Zammit Lewis participated in an Informal Ministerial Council of Ministers for Justice organised under the auspices of the German Presidency.
The discussion focused on the access to justice, the setting-up of the European Public Prosecutors Office (EPPO), the EU strategy to combat sexual abuse of children, e-Evidence and the fundamental human rights. Taking all of this into account, the minister reiterated the importance of having a justice system that is accessible and universal to all, without discrimination. Minister Zammit Lewis highlighted that, “The current times have sent an alarm bell on the need to have a more digitalised way by which we can make justice more accessible”.
The ministers discussed the European Public Prosecutors Office and the 22 additional appointed public prosecutors, including Dr Yvonne Farrugia. Malta assured the other participating member states of its commitment to this important EU initiative in favour of a European justice system that is more equitable and transparent.
Speaking on the EU strategy to combat sexual abuse of children, the minister noted that today’s society exposes children to online material, so we need to protect our children and their innocence. There is no room for criminal acts of whatever kind, especially when children are the victims of the crime. He maintained that, “Security of our citizens and our children is paramount, a common framework to protect our future generations is something Malta supports. International, EU, and common cooperation are always welcome. This is to take place through a system of reporting by Internet Service Providers (ISPs)”.
Through the meeting, the Justice Minister was very adamant on the need to work in favour of our citizens, the rule of law, and good governance. This is mirrored by recent endeavours undertaken by this government led by Prime Minister Robert Abela, which have been acknowledged by the Venice Commission in its opinion published on 9 October 2020.
