At a press conference yesterday, the Green Party leader, Dr. Harry Vassallo said that “The European Commission has just announced that it will be taking the Maltese government to court over its failure to apply EU directives regarding hunting in spring.” AD spokespersons on sustainable development architect Carmel Cacopardo and on agriculture and animal welfare Simon Galea called on the Maltese Government to respect the wishes of the majority of Maltese citizens who voted in favour of accession to the European Union and abide by the rules: stopping spring hunting with immediate effect.

Carmel Cacopardo said: “Maltese taxpayers are facing a huge fine if an irresponsible Minister for the Environment allows hunting this spring and fails to change Maltese legislation to ensure that hunting would not be permitted during this period in the future. Apart from the preservation of biodiversity, Maltese citizens have a right to enjoy the little remaining countryside without any fear or danger of any sort. It does not make sense to allow hunting of any species during the migration and breeding season, it is contrary to common sense.”

Agriculture and animal welfare spokesperson Simon Galea added: “The countryside and all the flora and fauna are our common heritage. The abolition of hunting in spring is a huge step towards serious nature conservation. Alternattiva Demokratika in parliament and as part of a coalition government after the next election will make sure that Malta abides by EU rules, something which the Maltese have chosen for themselves.”

AD Chairperson Dr. Harry Vassallo concluded: “Malta is being dragged in front of the EU courts because of the hard-headedness and irrationality of the government and the PN’s and MLP’s thirst for votes throughout the years. It is pertinent to remind people that it was Lawrence Gonzi himself, when he was PN Secretary General, who signed an agreement with hunters. George Vella had signed an agreement on behalf of the Labour Party. This shows that the environmental credentials of both other parties is dubious, to say the least. AD in parliament and as part of a coalition government will put a stop to these charades and restore Malta’s image as a serious European Union partner.”