The Government of Malta has decided not to extend Alison Bezzina’s contract as the country’s Commissioner for Animal Welfare. Bezzina wrote on social media that she has just been informed of this decision with “No explanation. No discussion. And with a week’s notice.”

Bezzina stated that she was ready to stay on in this role and that she is “hurt” by this decision.

“I was ready to continue. Ready to keep pushing. Ready to keep fighting for those who cannot speak,” outgoing Commissioner Bezzina said.

Bezzina remarked that her voice ruffled a few feathers and “has made some people uncomfortable” by “the revealed truths many couldn’t face.” She remained adamant that “if speaking up for animals, for justice, for compassion, for what is right, makes people uncomfortable, then so be it” because “that’s the kind of discomfort that bring change.”

She wrote that the Animal Welfare Commissioner role she’s occupied since November 2020 was more than just a job to her, but “a mission, a responsibility, and at times, a lonely battle.” She added that despite this, she would do it all again in a heartbeat.

Bezzina thanked everyone who has stood by her in these past five years, including those “who believed in what we were trying to do, all the long desperate calls to help animals, the NGOs, the activists, feeders, employees, [and] animal lovers from all over”.

She wished her successor luck, wisdom and strength to keep fighting for animal welfare and advised that her successor will need all three throughout their tenure.

Bezzina said that despite her not going to retain her role as Animal Welfare Commissioner, she is not going anywhere.

“I will keep fighting for animals — with or without a title, with or without an office, and definitely without fear. They can take the title, but not the voice,” Bezzina said.

Fleur Abela to be appointed new Animal Welfare Commissioner

Fleur Abela will be appointed as the new Animal Welfare Commissioner, replacing Alisson Bezzina, the government said in a statement.

The Commissioner has the aim of promoting and safeguarding animal welfare as well as protecting the rights and care of animals in Malta and Gozo, the government said.

"Fleur Abela graduated in law from the University of Malta in 2018 and continued her studies at Queen Mary University of London. She practices in civil law, human rights, and family law, and has worked on legal projects related to children and animals. Her passion for the rights of the vulnerable and her love for animals has been a constant throughout her professional and personal life," the government said in a statement.

"The Ministry thanks Alison Bezzina for her service during the contract period, which is ending in the coming days. It appreciates her dedication and work for the welfare of animals. The Ministry also congratulates Dr. Fleur Abela on her new role and looks forward to further efforts in favour of animal protection," the government said.

Fleur Abela is the daughter of retired judge Toni Abela.