Commenting on the opening of the hunting season, AD’s spokesperson on the environment and rural affairs, Mark Causon, said: “The whole country would benefit from the strengthening of the ALE since it would be able to do its work better for the benefit of the public who are entitled to enjoy the countryside without threats and bullying from hunters. It would also improve Malta’s reputation in Europe and this would benefit the tourist industry.

“It would also help to stop the rampant abuse of some hunters who shoot at anything that flies. It is also important that those brought before justice are punished with severe fines to deter others from abusing our laws.”

“It is ironic that while hunters have been given major concessions when Malta joined the EU against the wish of the majority of the population who want to enjoy free countryside, some hunters still flout the laws,” Mr Causon concluded.