Ombudsman expects ‘focus’ on his reports

Ombudsman Joseph Said Pullicino, who was yesterday sworn in for a second term of office, said he expected Parliament to react to and come up with decisions on his reports.

“I’m not a judge nor a minister, so I don’t expect nor want all my recommendations to be implemented. What I expect is that my decisions are accepted – how they’re implemented is a question of discussion,” Dr Said Pullicino said.

He added: “I can’t say there are a lot of these cases (where he is ignored) but I hope a way is found where, when I make a recommendation which isn’t accepted, there would still be a possibility for Parliament, through its committees, to make a final decision on what I decided. They are free to say yes or no, but I expect a reaction and a decision on my reports.”

Dr Said Pullicino said the parliamentary procedures regarding Ombudsman reports had to be refined and there had to be more focus on the subjects treated therein.

Dr Said Pullicino is the country’s second Ombudsman and was first appointed in December 2005 by a unanimous Parliamentary vote. He succeeded Joe Sammut, who had also served two five-year terms.

A lawyer by profession, Dr Said Pullicino was made judge in 1990 and promoted to Chief Justice in 1995, serving until 2002. He was then appointed chairman of the Malta Broadcasting Authority.

Speaking after the ceremony, held at the Palace, in Valletta, President George Abela said the fact that both ombudsmen had been appointed for two terms was a sign of trust and a result of the integrity shown by the officials.

“I see the Ombudsman as the citizen’s shield... He is not there for confrontation with the Executive but to strengthen the country’s administration, show the way and guide the administration through transparency,” Dr Abela said.