Hunting problem an "epidemic"

Alternattiva Demokratika expressed satisfaction that the chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority, John Grech had recognised that the problem of illegal hunting had reached "epidemic" proportions and was one of the factors dealing a blow to Malta's most important industry - tourism.

Dr Grech was speaking last week at the launch of the MTA's strategic plan for the coming two years.

"AD has long insisted that hunting and other environmental problems are detrimental to our tourist industry and that the government is not doing enough to address these problems," AD said in a statement.

AD also said it was satisfied that the MTA chairman recognised the risks posed by fish farms and tuna pens.

The MTA chairman criticised the location of fish farms and tuna pens as being too close to beaches.

"Unfortunately the MLP and PN representatives on the Planning Authority board had voted in favour of the permit given to the controversial Azzopardi Fisheries tuna pens in St Paul's Bay last year," AD said.

"Unfortunately in many ways Malta is still a banana republic where arrogant lobby groups dictate over the rest of the community."