The Insurance Association Malta and Malta Police Strengthen Collaboration on Road Safety

PRESS RELEASE

The Insurance Association Malta welcomed the Commissioner of Police and Senior Police officials to a high-level meeting, during which it reinforced its long-standing collaboration with the police on road safety and law enforcement. Discussions focused on the importance of ongoing enforcement of road traffic regulations, highlighting the need for such enforcement to be visible to the public to enhance compliance and act as an effective deterrent. The Insurance Association reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Malta Police, having previously contributed to road safety initiatives by donating breathalyser kits and through other efforts and initiatives such as improving the efficiency of the reporting of road accidents. The Insurance Association however expressed its concern at the fact the police are still unable to effectively enforce the law against drug driving and urged the authorities to swiftly implement the required changes at law and provide the required equipment and training to the police. The Association pledged to continue working with the police and offered support for the procurement of drug testing equipment and any necessary training, as well as on other future initiatives.

The Commissioner of Police expressed appreciation for the Association’s support and emphasises that working in partnership with the community was part of the Malta Police’s mission statement. He said that he was happy to note over recent years, there was a notable improvement in the number and severity of road accidents thanks to the initiatives that were implemented for the better enforcement of road regulations. Amongst others, he highlighted that the Malta Police Force has in 2024 doubled the number of road-checks conducted in 2023 and emphasised that these roadside inspections are held throughout the entire year. He welcomed the Insurance Association’s offer for support adding that the government’s investment in the police force has increased significantly over recent years and this has enabled the police to be better equipped and trained.  As an example, he mentioned that a specialised unit is being set up to investigate and report on road traffic accidents, which is aimed at improving the quality of such reports and in more successful prosecution of offenders.    Regarding roadside drug testing, the Commissioner noted that extensive research has been conducted on the best practices in other countries, and that detailed proposals were made to government as to the changes required in the law for such testing to be effective.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining an open dialogue, exchanging views on key issues, and exploring new opportunities for cooperation to enhance road safety across Malta.

Adrian Galea

Director General

Insurance Association Malta

23 January 2025