Environment Minister Aaron Farrugia said today he respects the Prime Minister’s decision to transfer the hunting regulator under the responsibility of the Gozo Ministry.
The Wild Birds Regulation Unit (WBRU), which has traditionally been under the portfolio of the environment ministry, was placed under the wing of Clint Camilleri, who is himself a hunter.
The move has angered wildlife conservation groups but was welcomed by the hunting lobby.
Camilleri was originally appointed Minister for Agricultura and Animal Rights in Robert Abela’s Cabinet but was later made Minister for Gozo, following Justyne Caruana’s resignation. The WBRU was made part of his Gozo Ministry portfolio.
Speaking to The Malta Independent on Tuesday, Minister Farrugia said a number of changes had been made. “They are the PM’s prerogative and we will stick to them,” he said.
Asked if he feels that the decision does not favour the environment, Farrugia said “this was the argument that Birdife made but one obviously respects the decision taken by the Prime Minister.”
The Malta Independent also spoke to Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri, who also said that the decision was the PM’s prerogative. “I will carry the responsibility of this sector along with those of the Gozo Ministry,” he said.
Asked what he will do to increase enforcement, Camilleri said the government has declared itself to be in favour sustainable hunting and trapping. “Everyone knows where we stand.”
“I believe that we need more enforcement, not just on the part of the WBRU but also of the police,” Camilleri said, “but we do not want to go to extremes – there needs to be a balance. I will do everything possible to protect these traditions whilst ensuring that there will be enough enforcement to cut down abuse.”
Asked about Birdlife’s reaction – the group said the decision was not in favour of the environment – Camilleri said that is their opinion and they have a right to it. The Minister added that he has a “cordial cordial relationship with Birdlife and with its CEO, Mark Sultana.”
He again said that the decision was the PM’s prerogative and “we have to carry the responsibility of any sector he entrusts us with.”