In Valletta, Prime Minister Robert Abela, together with Minister for Justice Jonathan Attard, inaugurated the new Court building dedicated to Investigating Magistrates – a landmark step that reflects the Government’s clear vision for a modern, efficient and citizen-focused justice system.
The new Palazzo Conte will not only house the specialised section of Investigating Magistrates, but also the Registry of the Court of Voluntary Jurisdiction and other essential offices. This will ease the burden on the existing main Court building, improving space, organisation, and efficiency across the judicial sector.
Prime Minister Robert Abela described the opening as “another important milestone in our country’s journey towards a more modern and efficient judicial system.” He reminded that this initiative follows Government reforms to strengthen the inquiry process, reforms that protect victims’ rights while ensuring inquiries are launched with justified purpose and solid facts.
The Prime Minister stressed that justice remains one of the three vital pillars of democracy in Malta, and the Government is committed not only to improving infrastructure but also to strengthening the human resources within the judiciary. “We want our courts to be equipped with the best talent and the best tools,” Dr Abela said. He noted the ongoing €10 million investment in a new Court Case Management System, the digitisation of the Legal Aid service, and a further €2 million EU-funded project to install a new audio recording system in all courtrooms — ensuring secure, accurate and reliable recordings of hearings.
Minister Jonathan Attard underlined the significance of the Palazzo Conte opening: “With this building we are formalising a crucial legal development — the creation of a specialised Investigating Magistrates section, equipped with all the tools needed to handle this delicate area of criminal procedure.” He explained that results are already evident. Since the appointment of four Investigating Magistrates at the start of 2024, 1,251 ministerial inquiries have been received, with over 830 already concluded — a 65% conclusion rate that shows the effectiveness of specialisation.
Vanessa Grech, Chief Executive of the Courts
Vanessa Grech, Chief Executive of the Courts Services Agency, praised the investment in infrastructure and staff development. “The Courts are a public service, and it is our duty to ensure the best resources, tools, and facilities. Today the Courts employ over 580 workers, including almost 100 lawyers directly assisting the judiciary.”
This inauguration reflects the Government’s strong commitment to making justice more accessible, transparent, and responsive to the people. By investing in both infrastructure and talent, the Abela administration is delivering tangible reforms that ensure Malta’s justice system continues to evolve and serve citizens with fairness and efficiency.
