Reaffirming its position against spring hunting, Alternattiva Demokratika – The Green Party voiced its concerns on the widespread bird slaughter occurring in these last days.

Simon Galea spokesperson for Agriculture and Animal Welfare said:” The Birds Directive is not being observed and irresponsible hunters are being provided with an excuse to shoot at anything. Although it is a known fact that illegal hunting is rampant in Malta, the government still implements a derogation because of a supposed “guarantee” that these same hunters will abide by the law. To add insult to injury a fee of 50 Euros and the compulsory wearing of an arm band have been wavered, thus making it easier for poachers to break the law.”

“The end result is a widespread massacre of protected bird species including birds of prey as well as hunting in Natura 2000 sites by hooded individuals. The government is ignoring the writing on the wall with Parliamentary Secretary Roderick Galdes refusing to acknowledge this sad reality. AD urges the government to immediately close the spring hunting season and to stop the farce of spring hunting. We also call for much stronger enforcement as from the autumn hunting season.”