The Institute of Maltese Journalists has joined in with the recommendation of Magistrate Francesco Depasquale who, in a judgment given on Thursday, urged Parliament to abolish criminal libel laws.

In a statement, the IGM said that it has been leading this battle for several years and earlier this year it held a meeting with Justice Minister Owen Bonnici and the Attorney General. The minister, according to IGM, had said that this was a priority for the government and the matter will be resolved by the end of the year.

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat had later expressed the same commitment in a separate meeting.

The IGM said that the government should fulfil its promise.

Magistrate's call