The latest budget has left lawyers disappointed and concerned about the lack of mention regarding the replacement of the hopelessly inadequate Gozo courthouse. Despite repeated promises and mentions in previous budget speeches, the current budget remains silent on this crucial issue. The promise of a new court building for Gozo has been a longstanding one, with the Minister for Finance mentioning it in budget speeches for the years 2014, 2017, and 2019. However, it appears that these promises have not translated into tangible action.
This silence is particularly concerning given the pressing need for improved infrastructure in Gozo’s judicial system. Lawyers have expressed their frustration over the inadequate facilities, highlighting the impact on the delivery of justice. The lack of progress on this front is seen as a missed opportunity to address a critical issue that affects the island’s residents and the local legal community.
The budget’s silence on the Gozo courthouse replacement comes amidst criticism over the management of public funds in other projects. For instance, the Gozo Ministry’s road project has faced significant criticism for exceeding its budget by €10.5 million due to inadequate planning and poor record-keeping. The initial budget was set at €8 million, but final costs reached €17 million, plus an additional €1.5 million in ancillary costs. This has led to calls for greater accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.
