Jean Paul Sofia’s mother, Isabelle Bonnici, has made an emotional appeal to the European Union to take action against Malta for its failure to publish building codes. This plea comes after the fatal accident that claimed the life of her 20-year-old son, Jean Paul Sofia, in a construction incident. Bonnici’s appeal was made during a European Parliament roundtable discussion honoring victims of construction accidents in Malta.
Bonnici described Malta’s construction sector as being plagued by “bullies and cowboys” who foster a culture of fear, avoiding accountability and transparency. She emphasized the need for revised building codes to prevent another fatal accident like the one that took her son’s life. The inquiry into Jean Paul Sofia’s death had outlined over 40 recommendations to strengthen oversight and safety in the construction industry.
These recommendations include mandatory geological and safety assessments for excavation works, abolishing fast-track permits, and implementing stricter enforcement mechanisms. Malta’s authorities have been urged to enact and enforce comprehensive reforms to ensure justice for victims and prevent future tragedies. The European Commission has also been called upon to provide enhanced oversight and guidance to address the systemic problems plaguing Malta’s construction sector.
