Domestic violence commission launched

Family Minister Dolores Cristina yesterday launched the Commission on Domestic Violence, which will advise the minister and draw up strategies to fight the problem and offer better protection to victims.

The commission is seen by the government as a crucial player in the fight against domestic violence, particularly in the field of awareness raising.

It is obliged to publish a report by the end of March of each year, starting next year.

Ms Cristina said the commission was a step towards the full implementation of the Domestic Violence Act, which entered into force on February 28.

It demonstrated the commitment towards improving policies, legislation and services.

The government was now thoroughly satisfied that Malta had a law that effectively stood up to domestic violence.

"Domestic violence is a scourge which hits all societies, across all the social fabric. Nobody is immune. From now on Malta has solid legislation in place which protects against this grievous act," she said.

The commission's members are Miriam Camilleri, chairman, Maria Attard, Albert Bell, Sr Joan Garner, Roberta Leprè, Nelio Mulvaney, Marcelline Naudi, Police Inspector Sharon Tanti, and Doris Vassallo, secretary.