[WATCH] New match-fixing law imposes harsher penalties for football corruption

Parliamentary Secretary Clifton Grima on the importance of the new drafted bill

A public consultation has been launched on a proposed law to fight corruption in sports, parliamentary secretary Clifton Grima has announced.

Speaking at the Ta’ Qali national stadium, Grima said the bill will improve the current match-fixing laws which date back to 1976. 

“The 1976 laws have protected the sport for quite some time, however with recent technological advancements, a new tool to protect the integrity of the sport is required,” Grima said.

The bill proposes harsher penalties on match-fixing, extends Maltese jurisdiction on persons implicated in corruption, while also offering protection to whistleblowers who speak out against corruption.

Grima hopes that the bill will be a “serious discouragement” for those who taint the game of football with illicit practices.

Speaking to MaltaToday, Grima insisted on the fundamental importance not to focus just on laws, but on an educational campaign targeting the grassroots of Maltese football.

“Education is the best tool we have to inform and help our children understand the risks present in match-fixing, while also protect them from partaking of such activity.”

The public consultation is open to both people involved in sports as well as the general public to offer their suggestions and proposals.

The bill will undergo a six-week public consultation process, after which it will be presented to the parliament after the summer break.