Collaboration Between Government And Doctors For Road Safety To Enhance Road Safety

Following last week’s Government announcement on strengthened road safety measures, the Government and the organisation Doctors for Road Safety held discussions to explore further collaboration in advancing initiatives that ensure the successful implementation of this reform and the achievement of shared objectives. Members of the organisation welcomed the Government’s approach and the direction outlined in the draft legislation.

Doctors for Road Safety is a non-governmental organisation founded by doctors and medical students, committed to promoting the highest standards of road safety in Malta and Gozo.

The Government announced five new deterrent measures aimed at improving road safety: Police roadside drug testing, similar to current alcohol testing procedures, Random roadside testing, where checks for drugs or alcohol may be conducted even without reasonable suspicion, Effective prison sentences for individuals found guilty of causing death, even involuntarily, while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, Harsher penalties for driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs, including increased fines at the discretion of the Court, Powers for the Prosecution to request the suspension of a driver’s licence while proceedings are pending, with the Court ultimately deciding on such requests.

The Government delegation was led by Prime Minister Robert Abela, accompanied by Ministers Byron Camilleri and Chris Bonett, as well as the Head of the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, Colonel Mark Mallia. They were joined by Police Commissioner Angelo Gafà and Transport Malta CEO Kurt Farrugia.

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