Alternattiva Demokratika has said that the number of protected species of birds shot dead this week is a major cause for concern.

AD Chairperson, Arnold Cassola said AD condemns the irresponsibility of those hunters who are flouting the law. This continuous flouting of the law can only lead to further action by the EU against Malta.

On his part, Carmel Cacopardo, AD spokesperson on sustainable development and local government said that AD is pleased that FKNK secretary Lino Farrugia has also publicly condemned hunters who are hunting protected species. FKNK sias that apart from embarrassing the whole hunting community the continuous flouting of the law can lead to the closing of the hunting season.

Carmel Cacopardo said, “AD asks why are the PN and MLP keeping silent on the issue of rampant illegal hunting. AD has always spelt out its position in a clear and unequivocal manner. We are against spring hunting and we insist that hunting should be strictly regulated and controlled according to the EU Birds’ Directive. AD also congratulates Birdlife for its sterling work on this issue. Birdlife’s and other organisations’ volunteers deserve our thanks and support.”

Arnold Cassola concluded that while it is positive that 6 people were arraigned in court on charges of illegal hunting, it is important that government takes effective preventive action to prevent the decimation of large numbers of protected birds, our common natural heritage.