Living Will Officially Becomes Part Of Maltese Law

The “living will” has officially become enshrined in Maltese law after being approved in parliament through all stages.

This law grants Maltese citizens the right to outline the care and treatments they would not wish to receive in the event of future medical conditions.

The law will ease the emotional burden on relatives during highly vulnerable moments when a person is in a serious medical condition and unable to make decisions.

Parliamentary Secretary for Reforms and Equality Rebecca Buttigieg explained that the “living will” law establishes specific medical conditions under which advance directives can apply.

These directives must be made following an informed decision, with the support of a medical professional, and formally registered before a notary.

Deborah Schembri, an attorney and former Labour MP who will contest again in the upcoming election, shared the passing of this law on her social media.

“Living will legislation becomes Maltese law. Hats off to Hon Rebecca Buttigieg for promoting it and thank you for making me part of the technical team that worked on it,” stated Schembri, “I’m sure a lot of people will benefit from it for years to come.”

The law will come into place following a transitionary period. Buttigieg thanked all those who contributed to the formulation of this legislation.

#MaltaDaily