President George Abela this morning appealed to the media not to use photos of magistrates, especially of those working in the criminal courts.

Speaking during the swearing-in of Magistrate Ian Farrugia, Dr Abela said that publication of photos of the members of the judiciary was not helpful and increased pressure.

The magistrates should be allowed to work serenely and they did not seek or need publicity.

Dr Abela also referred to the issue of lack of security at the Gozo law courts and said that it was important that the members of the judiciary and their staff worked in a safe environment, both within the court halls and in the court building.

He also announced that judicial assistants would now be available in the lower courts, where to date they had only been available in the superior courts.

He pointed out that the competence and responsibilities of magistrates was raised over the years and they were now taking decisions which were previously handed down by the superior courts. 

After being sworn in, Magistrate Farrugia said he would do his utmost to fulfil his new role and reflect the oath which he had just taken.  He thanked everyone, particularly his family, for their support and said he seek to be worthy of the Office that he held.