AD condemn reopening of spring hunting

Simon Galea, spokesperson of AD for Animal Welfare and Agriculture, said the Green Party has welcomed the European Commission's monitoring of government's decision to re-open spring hunting.

"The political decision runs counter to the requirements of the Birds' Directive. Whilst hunting for any species is unacceptable during this period since birds are on their way to their breeding grounds, other concerns include the illegal hunting of protected birds mainly birds of prey.

"To add insult to injury, not only is spring hunting for 11,000 turtle doves and 5,000 quails allowed as from 10th till 30th April but same legal notice LN123/13 does not cater for a proper enforcement mechanism addressing illegal hunting. Even past measures such as compulsory arm bands and 50 euro fee towards enforcement are absent."