Reports have recently appeared in the media on an investigation being carried out by the police against Freddie Fenech of the Abandoned Animals Association (AAA) with reference to an alleged misappropriation of funds and mistreatment of animals. The association was enrolled with the Commissioner in September 2008 (VO/0092) after its application was processed. The application form included a document under the signature of Romina Formosa, secretary, dated 5 August 2008 and addressed ‘To Whom it May Concern’ stating that “Due to the fact that our association has not kept any records of its expenses, may it please ask if we can be granted concession for this year to omit providing such documents. We will however supply such documents next year”.
In view of the fact that 2008 was the first year of the creation of the register for enrolled voluntary organisations under the new Voluntary Organisations Act that came into force at the end of 2007, and as part of its policy to encourage voluntary organisations to enroll with the register, the office of the Commissioner decided on a general policy of leniency for the first year (2008). The association’s request was acceded to in terms of this policy. With the understanding, however, that a fully audited statement of the association’s finances plus an annual report of its activities be submitted at the end of a year as a condition for the re-activation of its enrollment. These demands will be made on the association in September 2009.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner is contemplating whether steps will need to be taken in relation to the Abandoned Animals Association, within the provisions of the law and the definition of his powers within it, independently of whatever actions the police may or may not take against Mr Fenech. The Commissioner also wishes to take this occasion to advise the public from making any donations to voluntary organisations of whatever kind that are not enrolled on his register. Prospective donors should always check that the organisation has a valid certificate from the Commissioner’s office before making their donations. Any doubt about the authenticity of the certificate can be cleared with the Commissioner’s office at Block ‘C’ Beltissebh on [email protected] or on 2568-7261/3.
Prof. Kenneth Wain
Commissioner for Voluntary Organisations