The Federation for Hunting and Conservation - Malta (FKNK) said Wednesday it considers the General Environment Bill amendment to the Constitution (Article 45A), which was proposed by Nationalist MP Darren Carabott, to be totally unacceptable.

Article 45A defines environment very broadly to include air, water, land, ecosystems, biodiversity, natural resources and also social and cultural conditions, FKNK said.  The same article allows any person in Malta, regardless of personal interest, to take legal action if the right to a healthy environment is threatened or violated. 

"Such legal challenges could be used to introduce stricter regulations and enforcement, or even to abolish various hobbies, traditions, social customs, sports, recreations and other Maltese practices," FKNK said. 

The proposed amendment would empower the Civil or Constitutional Court to order urgent measures if it deems a breach of environmental law to be serious.  This could mean that the courts could suspend activities such as hunting and trapping in certain areas or seasons if they are considered to cause significant environmental damage, the FKNK said.   

Kaċċaturi San Ubertu (KSU) also issued a statement on the PN's Bill. "As an organisation that represents hunters, trappers, and conservationists, we welcome all initiatives that strengthen the protection of Malta's natural heritage and ensure that future generations enjoy a clean and healthy environment."

"At the same time, KSU strongly insists that constitutional reform must be balanced and inclusive, reflecting not only the duty to protect nature but also the rights of those who live closest to the land and its traditions. For centuries, regulated hunting and trapping have formed part of Malta's cultural identity and rural way of life. These practices, when properly managed and overseen, are sustainable and contribute to the stewardship of the countryside. For this reason, KSU believes that if environmental rights are to be recognised in the Constitution, then equal consideration must be given to enshrining the right to practise traditional and regulated hunting and trapping. Constitutional protection should not be used as a weapon to curtail traditions but as a framework for coexistence, fairness, and responsibility."

"Hunters and trappers are not adversaries of the environment - we are active custodians, contributing to habitat management, rural vigilance, and conservation projects. We therefore call on all political forces to ensure that any constitutional changes are the result of broad consultation with all stakeholders, and that they acknowledge the positive role of the hunting community in safeguarding Malta's countryside."