Alternattiva Demokratika chairman Harry Vassallo yesterday suggested a change in the law which would stipulate that police have to investigate cases of domestic violence, even if it is reported by a third party.

Dr Vassallo was speaking during a news conference outside the Family and Social Solidarity Ministry following a meeting between the three main political parties and the Domestic Violence Commission.

The Greens’ leader said it was a fruitful meeting where all concerned put their suggestions forward. “We need more nationwide acceptance and awareness of the problem. We do know there is a problem, but we need to know the full magnitude of what we are facing,” said Dr Vassallo.

Dr Vassallo said that during the meeting, it emerged that whenever there was media coverage on the issue of domestic violence, the various support agencies dealing with calls from the public simply could not cope as they were inundated with requests for help.

“There needs to be trained people and facilities to deal with women, children or even men who suffer as a result of domestic violence. We do need to study the problem, but we do need immediate remedies for the victims,” he said.

He also said that medical staff needed to be bolstered at the hospital. Dr Vassallo explained that these people had such a high workload that they often did not have the time to issue the relevant certificates of injuries or even to testify in court.

Dr Vassallo said there also needed to be more awareness of domestic violence on children and men, which he said was under-reported. “We also suggest that the Commission for the Administration of Justice collates all judgments handed down against perpetrators of violence so there can be continuity and uniformity in punishments imposed,’ he said.

The Malta Independent pointed out that there had been recent amendments to the law to ensure that people accused of committing acts of domestic violence leave the house once they are charged in court. “This is positive, but we want to see that extended to before the person is charged in court and this is all for the well-being of victims,” he said.

Dr Vassallo also said that AD would like to see an alteration to the law whereby third party reports of domestic violence would ensure a police investigation. “In that way, we might reach more victims,” he said.