Parliamentary Secretary responsible for Animal Welfare Alicia Bugeja Said announced the details of Malta Animal Awareness Week, a full week dedicated to animals, their protection, and raising further awareness about the responsibility that society has towards their welfare.
During a press conference, it was explained that throughout the week, various initiatives related to the animal welfare sector will be announced and carried out, including new investments, initiatives promoting animal welfare, educational and awareness activities, as well as the Animal Honours Awards.
Through Malta Animal Awareness Week, the Government is continuing to strengthen the message in favour of responsible animal ownership, while recognising the work of all those who contribute to the sector every day, including Animal Welfare employees, veterinarians, voluntary organisations, sanctuaries and volunteers.
Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said said: “This week should be an opportunity not only to celebrate the beautiful bond between humans and animals, but also to continue raising greater awareness about the responsibilities that come with owning animals. We must continue building a culture where we do not accept abuse or neglect, where enforcement goes hand in hand with education and prevention, and where animal welfare is regarded as a collective responsibility.”
Among the main events during the week will be the Animal Honours Awards, through which the contribution of individuals, organisations, sanctuaries, volunteers and businesses that make a difference in the animal welfare sector will be recognised, as well as adoption stories representing a second chance for animals in need.
The Commissioner for Animal Welfare, Elliot Magro, said: “Today we are launching a week dedicated to animals, during which we will not only reflect on the love we should show them, but also on the proper treatment they should receive throughout their lives. This week also coincides with the start of a new school year and, for another year, the Office of the Commissioner for Animal Welfare is once again committing itself to educating our students about the responsibility we have to ensure the proper treatment of animals and safeguard their welfare.”
For his part, the Director of Animal Welfare, Dennis Sciberras, said: “Animal welfare requires continuous commitment, both through the work carried out every day and through greater awareness and education. As a Directorate, we will continue working to strengthen our services, while remaining close to the community and encouraging everyone to play an active role in protecting and promoting animal welfare.”
Throughout the week, a series of activities and initiatives will be held with the aim of bringing animal welfare closer to the community, while giving greater visibility to the work carried out every day by all those involved in the sector.
The Government will continue working to strengthen the framework for animal protection, improve services and infrastructure, and continue investing in education, prevention and enforcement, in collaboration with all those working in favour of animal welfare.