VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The government will table a new Bill in parliament creating a legal framework to regulate the civil liability of public officials and entities, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced.
The legislation aims to shield public servants from personal liability for actions taken in the exercise of their duties, unless criminal intent or gross negligence is proven.
Abela said the law addresses a gap in the legal system, which he argued is causing hesitation and delays in public decision-making due to fear of litigation. “We want to give officials peace of mind to carry out their work effectively,” he said.
Under the Bill, the state will assume civil liability and cover damages or legal costs ordered by a court or tribunal, including in precautionary acts such as sequestration, until a final ruling is made.
Abela said public workers had repeatedly raised concerns about being personally targeted to hinder government operations.
The court will assess whether the act in question was carried out as part of a public function. If so, the state will intervene in proceedings and provide financial guarantees where necessary.
If the court later finds gross negligence or malicious criminal intent, the State can recover any payments made. The Bill applies to all public officials, including members of the police, armed forces, and constitutional bodies.
The government aims to pass the Bill before Parliament’s summer recess.
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