The minimum penalty for on-the-spot fines will double as from today, from €25 to €50, or the minimum penalty already provided by law for that offence, whichever is higher, the Government said.

This is being actioned through a Legal Notice being published today, and means that in cases where the law already provides for a higher minimum penalty, that penalty will continue to apply, to ensure that no lesser penalty is imposed than that which the law deems appropriate for the offence.

The Government said that this will strengthen law enforcement, improve compliance with the rules and make the penalties more of a deterrent to those who are considering breaking the law.

This Legal Notice is linked to the one issued at the beginning of last month, through which on-the-spot fines can now be issued to persons who are not residents of Malta. These fines cover minor offences and contraventions.

”Payment of the fine can now be made immediately at the time of the contravention, thus strengthening law enforcement. At the same time, if a person does not pay the fine, their passport or travel document will be withheld,” the Government said.

Minister for Justice, Research and Innovation, Clifton Grima, reiterated that this Legal Notice is also another step towards a more effective and fair justice system. He also said that, “We are continuing to build a modern legal framework that strengthens accountability and increases trust in the justice system.”

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