In the Press: Dalli scandal evidence heard in court

Stories from today's national press

The EU Court of Justice heard evidence yesterday from outgoing EU Commission President Barroso (at right) in the case against John Dalli (at left)
The EU Court of Justice heard evidence yesterday from outgoing EU Commission President Barroso (at right) in the case against John Dalli (at left)

The Dalli scandal dominates the front pages of the papers today, after a four-and-a-half hour hearing at the European Court of Justice in Luxembourg yesterday. Outgoing EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso called Dalli's position as EU Commissioner untenable, given the political situation he was in at the time.

Dalli stepped down after the EU's anti-fraud agency concluded that there was evidence of bribery.

The Times of Malta

Justice minister Owen Bonnici said that the drug law reform would free up the judiciary from having to hand down unnecessary prison sentences to drug users. A distinction will also be made, thanks to the change in the law, between dealers who sell drugs to fund their own habit and those who import large quantities of drugs into the island for financial gain.

In-Nazzjon

The MUMN has issued directives to its members as the issue of special leave being denied continues. Meanwhile, another appointment at the top has led to the replacement of the Director of Nursing, a post mired in controversy after its previous occupant, Charmaine Attard, was replaced after last year's general elections.

L-Orizzont

The White Paper published yesterday proposes the decriminalization of drugs. It also proposes the decriminalization of the use of cannabis for medical purposes when recommended by a physician. Simple possession of cannabis would result in a fine or a warning instead of a court hearing.

The Malta Independent

Mepa's enforcement notice on the small zoo at the Montekristo estate cannot be enforced because the animals held there would become homeless. One of the attractions at the Fiera l-Kbira, the collection went from being described as a private one to playing host to organized visits.