Minors are set to start testifying in court proceedings from a specific place which offers them a more suitable atmosphere than the law courts, it was announced today.
The place, to be named Children’s House, is aimed to offer a better environment for minors and relieve pressure they will be exposed to with a court appearance.
Speaking at the press conference on the Child Protection Act which comes into force in December, lawyer Andy Ellul said that the idea is to protect minors. “The main aim of this Act is to provide the necessary measures to protect minors.”
Ellul explained that there will be also changes in how the Director for the Protection of Minors will be appointed. This will now be made through a public call. He also explained that there will be reforms which will make it mandatory for professionals working with minors to report cases of abuse. “If someone makes a bona fide report which does not turn out to be true, they will not be subject to legal action.”
One important reform Ellul explained was that once the Director of the Protection of Minors receives a report on a minor, investigations must start no later than five days later.
The legislation also provides that children in foster care will now be able to be formally adopted after three years, rather than five, in extraordinary cases. “It is important that potential parents would have received three positive annual reports before adopting the child.” He also added that parents who lose their children to foster care will now be able to appeal the decision.
Minister for the Family, Children’s Rights and Social Solidarity Michael Falzon said that parents who lose their child to foster care now have the power to appeal the decision to court would allow for further scrutiny. “This is the first time we will have this legislation in our country.”
He said that it is a great step forward that potential foster parents will now be able to adopt a child after just three years instead of five. “There was a time when parents had to wait ten years, could you imagine how long that is for the child?”
He said that the introduction of a Children’s House will help reduce the difficulties faced by minors who need to testify. “These minors are already facing a traumatic experience, and they are not in an ideal position and feel vulnerable. We wish to provide them more security and help.”
He explained the concept of the set-up of a psychological care unit for minors who need more security and assistance during difficult period of times and when the minor themselves are undergoing legal investigations.