The government said today that it plans to double the maximum penalty which a court may impose for libel to €20,000 while removing criminal libel and the imposition of garnishee orders freezing the bank accounts of journalists during libel cases.
The fine for slander will be raised to €10,000.
Education Minister Evarist Bartolo and Justice Minister Owen Bonnici told a press conference this afternoon that the government is also considering the appointment of a press complaints council or ombudsman to consider complaints regarding unfair reporting.
“We will be looking at what is done in other countries and we might consider appointing a press ombudsman where those who feel unjustly treated by media can seek assistance through these channels,” Mr Bartolo said.
A public consultation will be held on what is expected of modern-day journalistic ethics, the minister said, adding that this will serve to protect journalists too.Mediation processes will also be introduced in an attempt to cut down waiting times for those involved in libel cases.
Asked whether the ministers disagreed with Economy Minister Chris Cardona slapping blogger Daphne Caruana Galizia with a €47,460 garnishee order,...
