Alternattiva Demokratika yesterday presented and planted a number of indigenous trees to Birdlife Malta to help boost the Red Tower Afforestation project in Mellieha.

AD chairman Harry Vassallo said that AD wanted to lend their support to the cause because it also supported Birdlife in the uphill struggle it faces.

Dr Vassallo said: “Birdlife has always been at the forefront in trying to get people to realise that it is very important that we look after our environment, not only for present generations, but also for those of the future. AD, he said, believed that to have a healthy lifestyle, the country needs ample open and green public areas.

Birdlife executive director Tolga Temuge said that the organisation will continue to try and educate people about the natural environment in Malta and Gozo, teaching them also about the local flora and fauna.

Dr Vassallo and Mr Temuge expressed hope of being able to meet again at the same place in Spring so as to hopefully enjoy the first such season without the threat of hunting.

Both said they hoped that the Maltese government would conform with EU directives in accordance with the will of the majority of the Maltese and Gozitan people who oppose hunting.