Critical legislative reforms designed to bolster safeguards for domestic violence victims remain inoperative months after their parliamentary passage in 2025. The enhanced legal provisions, which authorize senior justices of the peace to issue ex parte interim protection orders during exceptional periods such as long weekends and public holidays, cannot be activated until officials complete compulsory training programs.
Attorney General Anthony Sylvestre emphasized the necessity of interagency coordination for successful implementation, noting involvement from the Justice of the Peace Association, Police Department, Attorney General’s Ministry, and Family Court. “Although these senior Justices of the Peace are legally empowered with magistrate-level authority, they require specialized training before exercising these sensitive responsibilities,” Sylvestre stated.
The government acknowledges the urgency but maintains that proper preparation outweighs expediency. “We must strike a balance between rapid deployment and ensuring officials possess adequate training to handle these critical cases effectively,” Sylvestre added, dismissing notions of rushed implementation.
Financial considerations also remain unresolved, with reports indicating potential $50 application fees for interim orders. Sylvestre confirmed this amount hasn’t been finalized, noting logistical complexities: “These proceedings would occur outside regular working hours, requiring careful operational planning.”
No definitive timeline has been established for when the enhanced protective measures will become operational, leaving victims awaiting strengthened legal recourse mechanisms.