Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1541494
5 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 21 NOVEMBER 2025 NEWS CONTINUES FROM PAGE 1 The Rabat property ranked highest both technically and financially, with a negotiated price of €6,325,000 and rede- velopment costs considered feasible. Its central position and generous footprint make it well suited for conversion into a new courthouse, with works expected to take no more than three years. Gozo's courts currently oper- ate from a 17th-century build- ing in the Citadel, a historic site that can no longer cope with growing caseloads, mod- ern legal needs or accessibility requirements. Officials said the new facility will address long- standing limitations related to space, safety and functionality. Justice Minister Jonathan At- tard called the acquisition "a significant milestone for the justice sector in Gozo", saying the new building will ensure that justice is never hindered by inadequate infrastructure. Gozo Minister Clint Camill- eri also welcomed the project, highlighting its value for court staff, lawyers and residents. He thanked the Court Services Agency for leading the evalua- tion and negotiations. During the announcement, officials unveiled an artistic impression and walkthrough of the planned courthouse, giving the public an early look at the design. Vanessa Grech, CEO of the Court Services Agency, outlined the process from con- sultation to purchase, explain- ing how the selected site met the project's objectives. The event was attended by senior officials including Johan Galea, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry for Justice and Reform of the Construction Sector, Mario Borg, Perma- nent Secretary at the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, and members of the Court Services Agency. New law courts in Gozo will be housed at the site of the former Downtown Hotel The current law courts situation in Victoria, Gozo (Photo: James Bianchi) THE Gozo Philatelic So- ciety showcase on level -1 at Il-Ħaġarmuseum is now changed – possibly a little too early - to a Christmas theme within the "Christmas in Gozo" initiative organized annually by the Gozo Ministry. The exhibition is in two sec- tions, including a full range of Covers produced by the GPS President Anthony Grech us- ing the special Milied f'Għaw- dex handstamp. There is also an impressive assortment of old Christmas Cards and letter sheets, some of which posted locally. There is no entry fee at this cultural centre in Victoria's Pjazza San Ġorġ, with normal hours of 9am to 5pm seven days a week. It will remain till mid January, when there are a few days clo- sure for maintenance. Gozo Philatelic Society exhibition shifts to festive The exhibition is in two sections, including a full range of covers produced by the GPS President Anthony Grech using the special Milied f'Ghawdex handstamp