WATCH | Meet Your Candidate – Jonathan Attard

1. Looking back at your term, what do you consider your most significant achievement in your ministry, and what impact has it had on people’s lives? 

Throughout this legislature, we successfully steered through parliament an average of one bill per month, alongside a substantial number of subsidiary regulations. These reforms have been instrumental in modernising our justice system and delivering tangible improvements to people’s lives. 

The changes introduced in the field of magisterial inquiries represent a major step forward. We strengthened victims’ rights, enhanced accountability, and introduced faster, more structured procedures. 

We also advanced important initiatives across multiple areas, including family law, reforms to the Drugs Court, second-chance frameworks, and increased judicial specialisation, such as the establishment of a Commercial Court. 

We also addressed long-standing challenges in the construction sector, which had seen little meaningful reform for decades. Key achievements include the introduction of licensing regulations for contractors and masons, and new support services for citizens impacted by construction activity.  

2. With the benefit of hindsight, what is one decision you would approach differently, and what would you change if given the opportunity again? 

I have always worked from the premise that whatever we put forward is done in good faith and with full conviction. However, every day in office is a learning experience. 

There were instances where I piloted laws that were set aside due to calls for further consultation. I believe we could have implemented them while continuing to strengthen them simultaneously. That balance could have been achieved. If given the opportunity to serve again in Cabinet, I would approach things differently, by pushing forward legislation and continue to strengthen them throughout the process. 

3. What are the three pressing challenges facing the country in the next five years? 

The international situation undeniably has an impact on Malta, contrary to what some may suggest. That is why we are committed to providing stability and guarantees to our citizens. Other challenges, include the way our society is evolving. It is our responsibility to introduce more measures that encourage family time, create more open spaces, and invest further in education. This will ensure people have the necessary skills to make the most of the opportunities offered by Malta’s economy.  

4. Why did you decide to run for election? 

My vision of politics has always been that it should serve as a tool and a means of service. This legislature has included moments of challenge, but even more moments of satisfaction, through which we managed to make a tangible and positive difference in people’s lives. This has certainly motivated me to put my name forward again for the general election with the Labour Party. 

5. What is one issue you are most personally passionate about, and why? 

As a lawyer by profession, I have always believed that the country, especially from a legislative perspective, must continue to modernise its laws. I am always focused on ensuring that our laws continue to be developed and updated. A clear example is the reform of the Occupational Health and Safety at work legislation, which we updated after 22 years to reflect today’s realities. 

6. Outside of politics, how do you like to spend your free time? 

Time with my family remains my greatest priority. I particularly enjoy cooking, as it allows me to spend quality time with my family, my wife and our two children. At the same time, it gives me a chance to disconnect from my phone and technology and truly enjoy moments of rest. 

Meet Your Candidate is a MaltaToday sponsored production aimed at providing visibility to candidates from all political parties during the 2026 general election