SHout spokespersons gathered outside the House of Representatives today, the last day before recess, to emphasise the fact that it is the public who will be next to make a decision on the future of the country.

Moira Delia, SHout campaign spokesperson said that "for decades, our politicians have been frightened to deal with hunting because the hunters have threatened them with their votes.

“Today, Parliament goes on a recess for a month, and the next people to make a big decision about the future of our country is us, the people.  Every person has the chance to vote in the referendum and take a decision for the country.”

"Both Joseph Muscat and Simon Busuttil as party leaders have given us a free vote, they have left this for the people decide.  This is not a political issue, we are free to vote according to our conscience. We urge everyone to collect their voting card, to take their seat in Parliament and decide on this issue."

"We have the power to change the future of our country. We have the choice to do what is right. Everyone’s individual vote is as important as that of our politicians, each and every vote is important and equal."

Shout spokesperson Mark Sultana said that it was important to remember that over 40,000 people, 10% of Maltese voters, signed the petition to call for the referendum. "This is a historic moment for our country, the first time that a people's referendum has been held. Now it's up to all of us to make it count."

"The people's decision is binding, meaning that if the 'no' vote passes, there will be no spring hunting this year, or ever again in Malta. So please, do what is right: vote 'no' to protect the birds, vote 'no' to protect our countryside, vote 'no' to end the hunters' bullying," said Mark Sultana.

"Everyone must have a voting card to vote and they can be collected from the nearest local police station until 4 April, then we must all vote 'no' on 11 April, and solve this problem once and for all."