Minister for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector Jonathan Attard delivered an opening speech at the 18th European Regional Conference of the International Association of Prosecutors (IAP), marking the first time Malta has hosted this prestigious event. The conference brings together prosecutors from across Europe and beyond to foster collaboration and share best practices in the pursuit of justice.
The minister welcomed the distinguished guests to Malta, highlighting the shared values that unite legal professionals in their commitment to justice.
He emphasised the significance of the IAP as a vital platform for addressing the challenges faced in the ever-evolving legal landscape. He underscored the importance of meaningful discussions and the exchange of innovative ideas during the conference, which will ultimately enhance the work of prosecutors and strengthen the integrity of the justice system.
The minister took the opportunity to showcase Malta’s advancements in the field of prosecution, detailing the ongoing reforms initiated in 2019. He highlighted the establishment of the Office of the State Advocate, which allowed the Attorney General’s Office to focus solely on prosecutions, thereby streamlining legal proceedings. This shift has enabled the Office to handle serious criminal cases more effectively, including voluntary homicides, terrorism, fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering.
He outlined the continuous reforms that have taken place, noting the increase in the number of prosecutors from 18 in 2019 to 70 by the end of September 2024. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts between the Office of the Attorney General and the Police, which have led to the development of Standard Operating Procedures to ensure coordinated efforts in tackling crime.
Minister Jonathan Attard also highlighted the significant strides made in professional development, with the engagement of a Training Manager to conduct annual training needs analyses for prosecutors. This initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to enhancing the capabilities of legal professionals and ensuring operational independence within the Office of the Attorney General.
Addressing ongoing reforms in the justice sector, the minister mentioned the creation of assigned magistrates and planned reforms aimed at improving the committal procedure. These changes are designed to enhance efficiency and accountability within the legal framework.
In closing, Minister Jonathan Attard commended the participants for their engagement and dedication to the principles of justice. He also commended the Attorney General Victoria Buttigieg, for her invaluable contributions in the international arena.
The conference serves as a vital platform for fruitful discussions and collaboration, paving the way for continued advancements in the pursuit of justice across Europe.
Notably, a keynote opening speech was also delivered by Judge Ramona Frendo, Judge of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU), further enriching the dialogue at this significant event.
Photos: MJR
