The Parliamentary Ombudsman visits the Malta Communications Authority

The Parliamentary Ombudsman visits the Malta Communications Authority

Published June 18, 2025

The Parliamentary Ombudsman, Judge Joseph Zammit McKeon, paid an official visit to the Malta Communications Authority (MCA) at the invitation of the Authority. During the visit, he delivered a presentation and engaged in a dialogue with management and employees about the role and function of the Ombudsman in Malta’s democratic system.

The visit began with a meeting between the Ombudsman and the MCA Management Committee, led by Chief Executive Officer Mr Jesmond Bugeja. During the meeting, Mr Bugeja provided an overview of the MCA’s mission and regulatory functions. He explained that the Authority’s core objective is to promote and safeguard a communications environment that supports investment, innovation, economic growth, and social well-being.

The management also presented the Authority’s ten strategic objectives, ranging from ensuring high-quality services in electronic and postal communications, to supervising digital services, maximising the potential of radio spectrum, and contributing to sector policy development.

Following this exchange, the Ombudsman met with all staff members and delivered a presentation titled “The Ombudsman Remedy in Malta”. He explained the constitutional and legal foundations of the Office, its powers, its jurisdiction, and the investigative processes it follows. He underlined that while the Ombudsman does not issue executive decisions, the institution’s recommendations often lead to meaningful redress and systemic improvements in public administration.

Judge Zammit McKeon also highlighted the importance of transparency, accountability, and fairness in fostering a culture of good governance within public institutions. He concluded by expressing the Office’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the protection of human rights and enhancing trust between persons and the public administration.

At the end of the session, employees were invited to ask questions, leading to an open and constructive discussion on the role of the Ombudsman in upholding administrative justice.

The Ombudsman was accompanied by Dr Brian Said, Head of Investigations and Mr Jurgen Cassar, Head of Communications and Research.