FKNK insists hunting and trapping is allowed in Natura 2000 sites

Hunters' federation FKNK has accused government of "causing more problems" to the hunters through other entities.

In a statement issued this evening, the federation said that over the past few days, individuals from Din l-Art Helwa, an environmental NGO, were seen destroying hunters' sites at the Xaghra l-Hamra park.

"Even thought this park is a Natura 2000 site, it doesn't mean that hunting or trapping cannot be carried out," FKNK said.

The federation said it had pushed forward proposals to both Rural Affairs Minister George Pullicino and the administrators of the park to see how hunters and trappers could go on hunting or trapping like they have been doing for years on end.

"The Minister hadn't replied or put forward any other proposals before the destroying of the sites began," it said.

The FKNK also accused MEPA of being "vindictive and provocative", after the environment authority set up signs in Pembroke forbidding hunters and trappers from using the area.

MEPA marked the area as a Natura 2000 site. The authority also urged the public to report any hunter or trapper seen operating in the area.

Reiterating that hunting and trapping is permissible in a Natura 2000 site, FKNK sarcastically "thanked" MEPA for its notice.

The federation said that it was thanks to its hunters that MEPA is carrying out a study on the migration of turtledoves and quails for the fourth year.

"MEPA could have never conducted such a study if it hadn't been for the participation of hunters," the hunters' federation said.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, FKNK also complained of further 'torture' against the hunters.

The federation said that while the hunting season opens next Thursday, hunters have yet to receive a notice informing them when and from where they will be able to pick up their special licences.

It said that MaltaPost will be sending out the notice tomorrow, Tuesday, and on Wednesday when the hunting season opens on Thursday.

FKNK described this as further "vindictiveness" against the hunters.