Watch: Isabelle Bonnici Urges For All Public Inquiries Into Unnatural Deaths To Be Made Accessible And Free
Isabelle Bonnici, mother of Jean Paul Sofia, has made an appeal to Prime Minister Robert Abela and Opposition Leader Bernard Grech for further transparency regarding enquiries in unnatural deaths.
In a public video posted on the ‘Għal Jean Paul’ Facebook page, Bonnici further continued her fight for justice and truth, especially in regards to victims of unnatural deaths and their families.
Following the death of Jean Paul Sofia on 3rd December 2022, Isabelle had tirelessly fought for a Public Inquiry to be released, which finally saw effect in February this year.
In the video, Bonnici thanked all those who supported her and helped in the release of the inquiry that had united the nation.
Between the period of 2010 and 2022, a total of 49 deaths were reported on construction sites. 2021 and 2022 marked the deadliest years with nine and eight fatalities respectively, one of which being Jean Paul Sofia.
As a result of the death of Jean Paul and the massive support surrounding the case, the 138 helpline was opened for reports in regards to construction site issues.
Bonnici called on these supporters to join her in continuing the push for necessary changes in favour of the opening of public inquiries following unnatural deaths and the publishing of said inquiries.
“Why should a mother, from what little strength she has left, be forced to pay for the printing of inquiry papers,” expressed Bonnici, “and why, unless explicitly stated otherwise by relatives of the victim, should there not be public access to these inquiries for everyone?”
In the appeal, Bonnici proceeded to address political leaders from both parties, urging them to take decisive action.
“I appeal to the political leaders to join me and the population as brothers and sisters,” Bonnici continued, “I call upon them to introduce a legislation that would ensure the publication of inquiries into unnatural deaths to ensure that my son and other victims’ deaths are not in vain.”
She emphasised that “such transparency is essential to achieving justice in a democratic country,” as also expressed in a public statement.
What do you think about this appeal?
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