EU considers fresh action over Malta's spring hunting plans
The European Commission is considering fresh legal action against Malta over a legal notice issued last April providing for the possibility of a three-week spring hunting season in which 25,000 turtle doves and quails could be shot, sources say.
Talks between the Commission and the government do not seem to be going Malta's way, the same sources add.
A technical team is going through the data submitted by Malta after the closure of the week long hunting season allowed earlier this year and also other reports sent by NGOs and individuals.
"At first glance, it appears that the Commission has no problem with the week-long restricted hunting season permitted in 2010. However, we have serious reservations on the framework legislation unveiled last April proposing the future shooting of 25,000 birds over three weeks. We don't really think this respects the European Court judgment," a Commission official said.
About the possible infringement proceedings, he said "this is on our cards and a decision will be taken shortly".
After a break of two years, in order to wait for a European Court of Justice ruling on spring hunting, which was initiated by the Commission against Malta, the government last April decided to allow a restricted spring season of just a week during which a total of 7,500 turtle doves and quails could be hunted.
The European Court had ruled against Malta but conceded that the autumn season, in principle, did not really offer an alternative to spring, which the government interpreted as an opportunity to explore a "very limited hunting, under strict controls". After the Court ruling, a hunting season was announced for the period between April 24 and 30, excluding Sunday, in which a maximum of 2,500 hunters (who had to apply for special licences) could shoot a total of 3,900 quails and 3,600 turtle doves.
Hunters criticised the "obscene" proposals, claiming discrimination against the rest of the 10,000 registered hunters but the government insisted it had reached an arrangement on this restricted season for 2010 while talks were underway for a three-week period during which 25,000 birds could be shot in the years to come.
In the meantime, a legal notice was issued in April providing a legal framework for future seasons in line with the details mentioned above, as talks continued.
"The Commission has a problem with the numbers in this legislation," the sources said. "We think that 25,000 birds are too many and may not respect the criteria set down in the court decision against Malta. The problem for us is not how long the season may be but the number of birds killed."
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MARK MIFSUD BONNICI
Jul 30th 2010, 01:15
Franco Farrugia
Do you not realize that hunters in the EU states amount to over 7 million. All these according to you are still free to roam the countryside, wreak havoc at the natural environment, kill and trap as many birds as they pleased and of whatever species ... Warped reasoning at its very best
Well to be precise, they do roam the countryside no less then you can and if they do kill or trap any birds, these birds are what the Bird directive, based on sustainable studies of every species concerned allows.
Just because you and others do not approve of it still does not change the fact that any of these 7 million hunters has every right to exercise this recreational pastime within the parameters of the law.
As for your nonsense about the EU. Amongst many EU benefits, I as a hunter consider the regulation of hunting as being of great importance, since apart from regulating bird catches, it also recognizes my right to do so especially when your sort of people are so adamant to have it stopped. So thank God for EU membership
Joe Bugeja
Jul 29th 2010, 22:42
2
If we consider percentages, in 1971 MLP got 50.84% PN got 48.05%difference of 2.79%
In 1981MLP got 49.07 PN got 50.92% difference of 1.85%
Furthermore, the MLP divided Malta into 13 electoral districts and made them all equal with 5 seats each, not like what the PN did in 1971.
So you see my friend, someone gave us a very good interesting link last time to check things out. Check it out yourself http://www.maltadata.com/
r sammut
Jul 29th 2010, 22:03
@Franco Farrugia
You couldn’t be more misled! We really give much more than a hoot about the EU; especially to it’s treating us differently! Why, do they really want to set example with just us??? How come we need to continually be on trial on something which has barely been ousted by ECJ?
Adopting this limited derogation pales into insignificance as compared to those had by other states, for example England adopts over thousand. Why these bureaucratic measures shoved at just us?
Franco Farrugia
Jul 29th 2010, 20:04
But let us get one thing straight. For these people, these hunters and trappers, the EU would have meant just that: continuing to hunt and to trap. So, by their own admission, they don't give a hoot at the benefits that EU membership has brought with it - were it not for this so-called lie that the NP Government of the day gave them, they would have voted against EU membership! Can the people who read these words understand this? I mean ... it shudders me to think of Malta still outside the EU, because let us remember that Alfred Sant, then leader of the opposition, was against EU membership and in favour of ... whateveritwastheycalledit! It was in this context that the NP Government, pro-EU, did everything possible to bring everyone on board. Imagine our country outside the EU. But what the hell ... for these hunters and trappers, as long as they are still free to roam the countryside, wreak havoc at the natural environment, kill and trap as many birds as they pleased and of whatever species .... that's all it matters for these people. Well, I, for one, disagree totally.
Joe Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 22:03
Benefits from EU membership Franco Farrugia? You must be living in outer space. What about the destruction that we have caused by the EU? What about the foreigners and illegal immigrants invasion which has caused havoc on Maltese life?
Carmelo Briffa
Jul 29th 2010, 23:06
Hallina Sur Franco, jien mhux kaccatur.
Fil propoganda favur l-EU kitbu {GIDBU} lill- hafna nies li fl' EU ha jkunu ahjar fil mistier jew delizzju taghhom. imma qarqu bihom.
Ara t- TRATTAT TA LISBONA ma resquhx referendum ghax kienu certi li jintilef.
Ghallanqas wara li seghmmu x hadet Malta mill EU seghmmu x' qed inhallsu. Jew insejt li mill- 1ta'Mejju 2004 ir rata tal vat zdieded b'3%. apparti ziedied ohra. li ma jikkomparaw xejn maz- ziedied fil pagi.
Karmnu.
Johnny Xerri
Jul 30th 2010, 05:33
Democracy means the rule by the people.
People vote on what they agree and what they do not agree upon.
If more people were in favour of the EU then the yes would have passed.
If more people were against the EU then the no would have passed.
Simple.
If the only way the referendum would have passed is through lies, inaccuracies and plain vote stealing, then we might as well not have had a referendum and just had it imposed on us 'for our good'.
It makes me shudder to think that:
1.In 2003 and 2010 we still have petty minds who can only win elections on deceit, and that we are no better than communist countries, who at least know they are being dictated upon,
2. Pillars of democracy are actually pillars of tyrany.
3. People who promote violence (remember the LSA), indoctorate young minds with their garbage so that they acheive their personal goals
If the EU is as good as you claim why was there a need for deceit? Was it maybe that only a few blue eyed boys & girls would really benefit.
At least after getting my help PN should honour their obligations.
P>Spiteri
Jul 29th 2010, 19:11
Ah to be totally oblivious
Tell a fisherman that he can only catch 2 fish from FEB to AUG
A supermarket to sell 2 chickens and not 3 a day
or a restaurant can only except 2 clients but not 3 At least the bills please send 2 but not 3
How come some people know so much when its about sombody else's hobby.
one even said we catch millions or claim we catch millions [could not be more wrong]
In europe millions of huntable birds are cought every...now here it comes ...YEAR...what does it matter if its spring summer autumn or winter,here the season makes itself.We have 2 huntable species and the males as far as I know [correct me if I'm wrong} DO NOT LAY EGGS.Its alright for the europeans to kill these birds next autumn.It would be nice if we had some of their WEALTH, JOBS and PAY [and power]but instead we have an increase in bills and more expences and lies.lets not forget the fines the ones not about hunting mind you. I shoot but at least NOT MY OWN FOOT [the EU know it all's do that.]
Matthew Mallia
Jul 29th 2010, 18:55
@Martin Pisani,
Yes I am an anti, and proud to say so but after reading your comments I checked for myself about shooting laws in england, thinking dat u were in the wrong, but i must admit here in public that i wwas wrong, very wrong.
How can other countries like the united kingdom shoot all year around????!!!!!
Malta is my country too, like all maltese so big eu stop being a bully and let traditions carry on.
I regret voting yes in the referrendum, if i had another chance i would say NO, but i know that we r now in to stay.
what a mistake i made, and thousands like me....even though i am against blood sports
Steve Zammit
Jul 29th 2010, 20:22
''How can other countries like the united kingdom shoot all year around????!!!!!''
First and foremost it is irrelevant what happens abroad. Comparing what happens here and there gets us no where. Each country has its limits, numbers, populations, different resident and migratory species etc....
They can hunt all year round in the UK for RESIDENT Woodpigeon and other gamebirds. Hunting of wood pigeon in the UK is another story...its a resident game bird and there are millions of it and they have strict quotas and regulations. In Malta wild Woodpigeon is very rare. The whole Spring hunting issue here in Malta is about the hunting of MIGRATORY Turtle Dove and Common Quail which are illegal to hunt in Spring EVEN in the UK .
That is the reason why they hunt in the UK all year round...its a totally different specie. Turtle Dove in the UK has declined in recent years and they won't even dream of shooting it!
If Malta had a resident game bird then who knows maybe maltese hunters could hunt them all year round to eat but we don't have any so bad luck.
Regards
lgalea
Jul 29th 2010, 22:06
Matthew Mallia you have a choice Matthew. Shout and holler with all your might for another referendum to leave the eu. We can leave the eu http://www.europarltv.europa.eu/YourParliament.aspx?action=viewVideo&packageid=f5077c6b-3b92-4a1f-8271-c7a49c3bc6e8
Andrew Gatt
Jul 29th 2010, 22:12
Steve Zammit, please check your facts before scribbling RUBBISH. Sorry, RUBBISH!. There are NO bag limits and NO restrictions on woodpigeon, nor are there any quotas on several species of gulls, rooks, crows, jays, canada geese, rabbits, foxes, squirrels etc. Spring, summer, autumn, winter. Do you know why? Because the UK applies OVER 1000 DEROGATIONS ANNUALLY.
Poor tiny Malta, a dot on the map..........all we want and were promised are 2 DEROGATIONS to shoot 2 species of prolific and non-endangered migratory GAME birds. Big deal considering MILLIONS of woodpigeon alone are shot in the UK. Plus several other gazillion game/pest species. Hemm qeghdin il-milljini, mela hawn!
Wanna know more? In England one can shoot 24/7/365. Shot size is one higher than ours. Lamping equipment is permitted. Mechanical decoys are allowed. And so on.
A last titbit for you to chew on. The intensive agricultural practices leading to habitat loss are what have caused the UK POPULATION of turtle dves to decline and NOTHING else.
Steve Zammit
Jul 30th 2010, 11:16
Hello Mr.Gatt,
Thanks for your reply...I don't think you got the point of my comment. I replied because Mr.Mallia wanted to know why they shoot all year round in the UK...thanks for telling me that there are no quotas etc I admit openly in public that I didn't know but all the rest I said was true.
Its useless comparing Woodpigeon shooting in the Uk with Turtle Dove hunting in Malta. 2 Totally different species.
Do they shoot Turtle Dove in the UK? - No
Do we have resident gamebirds in Malta?-No
Did I ever say that the decline of Turtle Dove in the Uk is due to shooting?No of coarse not. It was due to intense agriculture and as you rightly said habitat loss. The point is they (UK0 don't shoot Turtle Doves!
I will repaste a part of my comment posted before...:-
If Malta had a resident game bird then who knows maybe you and other maltese hunters could hunt them ALL year round to eat but we don't have any so bad luck.
r sammut
Jul 30th 2010, 16:10
@ Steve Zammit
Oh yes they do not shoot turtle doves in the UK because it is not as frequent there! But then see what goes on in France, Spain and Italy about turtle dove shooting!
Is that so they can shoot residential birds to their hearth content? Not here, even the residential sparrows are protected, though they causing havoc in farming industry!
Steve Zammit
Jul 31st 2010, 10:50
@R.Sammut
Thanks for your comment. Since you and co. always compare what happens in the UK is irrelevant because as I said before its a different specie- Woodpigeon. Calm down I only posted this comment because its people like you who go on moaning about what is permitted in the UK!!
Since you persons love comparing with goes on in the UK, I think you shouldn't hunt Turtle dove in Spring since in the UK they don't hunt it:-)
Oh now you go on to mention what happens in Italy, France and Spain. I don't care what happens there. IF what you are saying is true it doesn't mean its right at all. What about the other 24 EU member countries...do they hunt Turtle Dove in Spring???
To conclude with...the spanish sparrow isn't a game bird. Bah you will never be allowed to shoot them...dream on...
Just for once give birds a break in Spring for everyone to enjoy:)
r sammut
Jul 29th 2010, 17:12
Is it the EU making an example of us? Spring hunting and derogations are applied all over the EU States. The UK in particular has more than a thousand derogations applied, year round. Why this bureaucracy against tiny Malta? Are we being reduced to just a door mat for the EU?
MARK MIFSUD BONNICI
Jul 29th 2010, 16:21
E Azzopardi
Priorities are what you make them out to be. In the case of hunters, their form of relaxation, though not agreeable to some, happens to be one of their prime priorities.
If it's fines that bother you then beware, because it is not only hunting that the EU scrutinizes but several of the matters you see as priorities. So prepare your pocket for whatever the EU sees as an infringement. Whether you agree or not your pocket will not be spared.
C Mallia
Jul 29th 2010, 16:45
Priorities are what EU countries negotiated with the commission and not what you and I think. The commission fines defaulting countries because it wants certain equal standards applied across the EU. The commission has every right to bring every EU country to check and for every fine applied there is a whole sophisticated legal and political mechanism where every party will have the opportunity and the right to make his/her case.
E. Azzopardi
Jul 29th 2010, 14:42
Many comments are irrelevant and do not make sense. We are talking about hunting.
To start with, "Victory" was hailed to early. Now there you are, in all probabilty the EU will totally abolish spring hunting. And their patience with Malta is running out and we all know what that means. It would be very unjust on the vast majority who oppose hunting ( and they have every right) to start paying up the fines. It would be unacceptable.
On the other hand, where are our priorities? Isnt' the health, education, deficit , environement .employement etc etc more important that this, It is simply waste of time which can be devoted to the "priorities".
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 13:42
Facts speaks for themselves.
http://www.kaccaturi.com/
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iRNln1D7fs
George Gauchi
Jul 29th 2010, 13:22
Now hear this,it happened to my friend a couple of weeks ago, my Gozitan friend went fishing at Mgarr Harbour with his fishing rod, the same thing that he used to do for the last 40 or so years every Summer,now what happened is a couple of weeks ago while he was on the rocks at Zewwieqa with his fishing rod not 2 but 5 policemen went to him and ordered him to leave straight away or otherwise he will be arrested and taken to court because now it is private so no one can fish or swim and then you will find some one who will tell you to get another hobby,so our public land and sea is being sold or leased to the private. Long Live The EU and the PN
D.Bonello
Jul 29th 2010, 12:55
Myself & many others voted Yes for EU with all the guaranties that Mr S Busuttil & the PN promised us, including the continuation of Spring hunting & trapping. Now we demand by right what we were assured, of keeping the tradition. If this does'nt happen, then it was all lies from the start to steal votes. Like many others i deeply regret voting to join EU, but once bitten twice shy. What i can promise is, that the PN can say bye bye to my family votes for sure. " EU considers fresh action over Malta" Do you call this FREEDOM? We are supposed to be INDIPENDENT.
C. Borg
Jul 29th 2010, 13:35
Mr Bonello, 3 members of my family (also hunters) did the same as you although I tried to convince them not. Also our federation warned us, but unfortunately there where people that do not listen or see only 1 colour. Anyway now hope that you have learnt the lesson.
What I want to say, is that when we accepted to join the EU, we SOLD our island FREE OF CHARGE. Saying this with simpity to all our patriots that where killed and died for our country to be free. Free to take their own decisions, Free to feel what the people in the street really need. Are we FREE??? My answer is NO..... What is yours...?? Be sincere otherwise don't reply {although your are free to do so}...........
L. Portelli
Jul 29th 2010, 13:46
Well said D. Bonello. We voted for the EU and everything they said before entering was ONE BIG LIE. PN can say bye to all my family votes forever. They cheated us to get votes. They played with our lives and they don't care about nothing were we are concerned.
Charles Sammut
Jul 29th 2010, 14:37
@ D Bonello
Would you buy a used car from Dr Simon Busuttil or Dr Gonzi? The former declared that he only spent €17,570.69 in his MEP campaign and latter believed him? These people will promise anything to stay in power and reap the benefits at our expense.
But at least you have now recanted and will not be fooled again.
G.Portelli
Jul 29th 2010, 15:20
You see only up to your nose. This is the biggest problem in Malta. I would rather have no hunting but a good job. Hunting is a hobby which you can practice to a certain limit. Limits are always placed because otherwise it's anarchy.
Hunters got to this because each one used to lie blatantly about catches. If you catch one you say that it's a dozen. Of course that when numbers are added the sum is fenomenal to an extent that Malta had become the main route of migrating birds. Now whose fault is it??
D.Bonello
Jul 29th 2010, 18:51
@ Mr Borg. Yes i agree with you that we're not free anymore since we joined EU. We are being told what to do from a bunch of foreigners in Brussels. We were fed a lot of lies by the party we supported, and people like me who voted yes to EU admit it all. Politics for me is history but since you seem like you are still involved, & knows more than others do , i would really like you to tell me what's going to happen, especially if we have a new goverment in power? @. Mr C Sammut. The people who were fooled by the party they supported have nothing to be ashamed of. Its the Pinocchio's who specialize in lies who should be ashamed.
Stefan Micallef
Jul 29th 2010, 19:27
Good job what?If we got the highest taxs in all EU.We must help greece get out of the trouble they got themselfs in want it or not.We must do whatever they tell us or they fine us thats what EU have to give FINES.They also deprived me from my passion and the most thing i wait for in my life.
NO I DONT CALL THIS FREEDOM!WE LOST ALL WE GOT IN THE LAST HUNDREDS OF YEARS.WHAT OUR FATHERS FOUGTH FOR IS NOW LOST AND THERE'S SEEMS NO WAY BACK.THIS IS ALL THANKS TO pN AND ALL IT'S LIES!
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 12:48
Over the last couple of months everyone realized that the overwhelming majority of the Maltese do not want old traditions / sports / passions such as hunting trapping / fishing/ fireworks to stay alive in Malta, instead they prefer to have modern traditions like, divorce, cohabitation, abortion, same sex marriage, drugs, pornography, prostitution etc etc, all this and more will make the Maltese a modern civilized 21st century open minded.
Jason Borg
Jul 29th 2010, 12:57
Now you are sounding like the Taliban.
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 13:24
@ Jason Borg,
Your comment proves me right.
Jason Borg
Jul 29th 2010, 12:03
As a fervent and dedicated ANTI, I welcome such news with open arms and a wide smile on my face. However, my mild manners and education prevent me from commenting further.
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 14:00
The majority of hunters and trappers were deceived by the present politicians and EU negotiators. Today you're smiling tomorrow others will.
Jason Borg
Jul 29th 2010, 14:54
Dream on....
MARK MIFSUD BONNICI
Jul 29th 2010, 11:56
Franco Farrugia.
The fact that you show your true colours strengthens my resolve.
Spring hunting in Malta is now fact, it is only the hunted number of birds that is being contested.
Considering your emphasis on wishing further action against Malta, what do you propose to do in order to make this wish a reality? More indoctrination perhaps?
"I really wish it. Oh, I really wish that 'fresh action' is taken against our Malta - since we are unable to manage our affairs the non-troglodyte way."
Considering such matters were decided by a court, it is those that oppose such a system that can be termed as Troglodytes.
The fact that such Troglodytes are entrusted with the education of our children leaves much to be desired.
Your arguments do not impress an adult mind, one wonders what you preach to immature minds considering the values you so openly publicize.
Thankfully my children are beyond the age of being indoctrinated and have matured into rational thinking teenagers that were not influenced by biased educators.
Franco Farrugia
Jul 29th 2010, 15:19
Actually, I am glad that you are once again out of the woodwork - or shall I say, cave?
Apart from personally attacking me for my profession, you said nothing else and personal attacks mean nothing to me. I will let my superiors and those whom I have helped in the educational field, to speak for me. Certainly, not you, as you stated so clearly.
You see, it is not a question of 'indoctrination' but merely showing where the truth lies. As I said in my original comment, we have to keep our ear - no, both ears! - to the ground and listen to what nature is telling us, listen to what modern times are telling us. This is not only about hunting but it is an all-encompassing thing - we have to respect the natural environment and stop killing for the mere pleasure of seeing blood coming out and animals dead at our feet. Is it so much to ask? I don't think so.
You also speak about my 'true colours'. But I have always spoken my mind and was never afraid of saying what I thought - at least, even you should grant me that. :-)
Franco Farrugia
Jul 29th 2010, 15:50
Another thing - about the role of teachers.
Teaching is a noble profession, a vocation. Teachers do not indoctrinate. Teachers do not spoonfeed their pupils and students. To say that, as you do, implies that you underestimate the power and the intelligence that the young people today have!!! I bow my head at these young people's intelligence and wit. Teachers cannot just impose opinions on their students because they will be laughed out of court. Teachers merely open up the issue and allow the students to research themselves what the truth is and where it lies. In class, teachers may merely give their opinion - which is no longer Gospel-truth as it was once and thank goodness for that! - and allow a free discussion. It is up to these young and fresh minds, minds that are oblivious of so-called 'traditions', to come to a correct idea as to what is going on. Many students know that times are changing and that therefore, not only values must change but even yesterday's 'traditions' cannot continue. Not only that but these young and fresh minds go to their homes and unwittingly, bring adults on board as well.
David Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 16:59
I for one can vouch for Mr.Farrugia :-)
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 11:42
I am very familiar with that, Spiteri, and the MAJORITY want hunting OUT once and for all
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 12:50
If the majority is against, then why Alternattiva Democratica never made it?
Ray Buhagiar
Jul 29th 2010, 11:32
Well done EU. Now let us see a ban on those who are annoying neighbours with pheasants and quail!
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 13:22
Yeah let's ban everything, I'm annoyed with people talking rubbish.
Frans Buttigieg
Jul 29th 2010, 22:09
Go and live on a desert island Ray Buhagiar
C Mallia
Jul 29th 2010, 11:30
1. Malta has one of the longest Autumn season and the worse track record of illegal hunting in the EU.
2. There is yet no serious commitment from the government to ensure that hunting laws are respected, that have produced significant results. There are no wardens in our countryside for added control but an understaffed unequipped ALE which is simply not enough.
3. When poachers are caught, fines and punishments are mediocre.
4.The hunters representatives shift the blame on the government for complacency, keep calling BLM liars and downplay illegalities instead of seriously controlling all their members with internal disciplanry actions.
Result of this mess: No serious accountability, Unkept political promises, countryside free-for-all, stress and frustrations, bad image to Malta, illegal "restricted access" to public areas, possible fines from the EU, tourism issues, but mainly protected birds still being killed. The list keeps getting longer.
Yes please commission, look into this issue and make fresh actions. Since May 2004 till today we have been in the EU - thats 5 years already, and the Maltese has seen too little real improvements but alot of political bickering
g.c.Forte
Jul 29th 2010, 11:28
2..............Mr.M.Gauci.........IN FACT BOTH PARTIES ACCEPTED THAT THIS WAS STUPID, AND CHANGED IT, TO COME AS IT IS NOW. I wish you to explain to me how come that for the election of 1996 M.L.P. brought more than 8000 votes more than the P.N. and had just one seat difference. Today, we have a government that have just only 1400 votes more and have THREE seats less. My point is, that both parties do gerrymandering while in power, so they will benefit from it. When it comes to the trappers and hunters, I must say that they have been played and betrayed. Are they stupid for believing the P.N.? But it is known secret that somebody took advantage from them. Yes, I do believe that they will forget, and vote for the P.N. again, because for most of them, when it comes to elect a government, they vote by their heart and not by their minds.
g.c.Forte
Jul 29th 2010, 12:25
@ M.Gauci.............I think you are not understanding me, or I am not understanding you. In my opinion the people`s wishes comes when to elect a government. Once the government is elected, the voice of the people will be silenced, by the same people that they have elected.( I hope that we agree on this one ). This means that over and above the people there are THE CONSTITUTION. It is the law that shows the difference between us and the animals. Let us go back to the 80`s, and I think that you know who went against our Constitution, and tried to stabilized our country. When it comes to stabbing, I think that you either have short memory, or you think that we do not know the story. I am sure that the biggest stubbing in our political events was that of The gentleman George Borg Olivier. And I am sure that you know from whom. That is why I told you " Both parties have their good and bad times " .........The problem in this country is, people like you, do not have respect of saying the truth, and the only colour you see is BLUE.
martin pisani
Jul 29th 2010, 11:16
@ Paul Debono,
are you awake this morning? Spring hunting no where in the EU?????? wake up sir and read the facts, or send me ur email address and ill send you photos of last springs shooting season in the UK, but make sure your pc has alot of space cause i can send u lots and lots of photos.
How pathetic!!!!!!
M.Pisani
Paul Debono
Jul 29th 2010, 11:35
Show me one approved derogation for spring hunting by the EU Commission. Those are the only facts acceptable.
D.Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 11:16
@Paul Debono.
You are WRONG.
Spring hunting IS practised in other EU countries. Get your facts right please!!
The UK amongst others!
Steve Zammit
Jul 29th 2010, 11:46
''Spring hunting IS practised in other EU countries. Get your facts right please!!
The UK amongst others!''
Can you verify what they hunt in the UK in Spring? Woodpigeon (tudun)maybe???...That is what they hunt in UK. Turtle Dove and Quail in Spring...I don't think so. Please stop comparing what other countries do and what not...it will get us no where. Hunting of wood pigeon in the UK is another story...its a resident game bird and there are millions of it and they have strict quotas if I am not mistaken and regulations. If Malta had a resident game bird then who knows maybe you could hunt them all year round to eat but we don't have any.
Just because they hunt Woodpigeon in Spring in the UK means that Malta should allow hunting of migratory Turtle Dove over here? What reasoning is this?They are two totally different species with different status. Mr.Caruana just for once give birds a break in Spring. It isn't like they don't have any other problems to face you know...all they need right now is hunters shooting them on their doorstep to their breeding sites!
Regards
MARK MIFSUD BONNICI
Jul 29th 2010, 11:12
The issue of whether spring hunting under derogation is allowed, which according to Birdlife Malta is illegal throughout the EU, has unequivocally been settled.
The commission now contests the number of birds that may be hunted under derogation and not whether such hunting is "legal".
For all those calling hunters "cavemen' or comparing Malta to other countries. The directive that regulates hunting is common to all EU states and all can avail themselves of derogations to these rules.
Whether hunters are labelled as troglodytes, considered as a minority or despised will not effect the Commission's evaluation of Malta's calculations.
It is known fact, also known to the Commission that the anti hunter will resort to any means, including the most vile, in order to depict hunting in the worst light possible.
The issue of legal spring hunting is a perfect case in point whereby the whining of the anti hunting lobby was put in place by an ECJ ruling. No less will the issue of bird numbers notwithstanding the warping of facts by the same people that considered spring hunting as illegal and unsucessfully used all means to oppose justice.
Jesmond Mifsud
Jul 29th 2010, 11:23
I don't need to resort to what the Commission has to say about hunters. I've seen first hand what they're capable of. I don't care about their hobby and how they can't calm their cravings. As a tax-payer I have the right to not have to pay for the crimes of these blood-thirsty individuals.
V Falzon
Jul 29th 2010, 11:12
"The problem for us is not how long the season may be"
Unfortunately, the length of season is very much the problem. Maltese hunters have no shred of respect for bag limits, the authorities have no idea how to enforce quotas (send an SMS, of all the stupid ideas!) and everybody knows the carnet de chasse is a sad joke.
The truth is that the longer our beloved Rambos are allowed out with their manly weapons, the more birds they will kill. It is as simple as that. Which is why a total ban on hunting in spring is the only solution.
Chris Finch
Jul 29th 2010, 10:52
Hunters, I think now there is a sea of change happening in the civilised world. It is time to put down the gun and pick up the camera. You will find this a much more rewarding hobby, and one you can share with the world. It will also bring you more peace.
marco meli
Jul 29th 2010, 11:00
And istead of the turtle dove i will eat the photo right? Why do i have to eat the photo while other hunters in the eu will eat the meat? Discrimination that is!
D.Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 11:11
Chris Finch,
Are you calling the rest of Europe uncivilised????
Jesmond Mifsud
Jul 29th 2010, 11:15
@marco meli
We're not living in caves anymore. If you want to eat bird meat just go to the grocery store and buy yourself a frozen chicken. I'm sure it would taste better than a skinny , lead-riddled dove.
I find it unfair that we're paying for your turtle-dove soup through taxes. How's that for discrimination?
Sergio Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 11:38
Jesmond Mifsud so is it ok to kill a chicken but not a bird? At least a bird has a sporting chance of being missed. A chicken has none.
Chris Finch
Jul 29th 2010, 12:04
D Caruana, in fact, I am calling the rest of europe civilised as slowly but surely these barbaric blood sports are coming to an end. Take bull fighting in catalonia for example.
Marco meli, if you take a good enough photo and sell it as friends of mine have done, you could dine out on it for some time to come. So yes, in effect, you can 'eat' the photo. The added benefit is, you haven't removed the source of your 'food' so you can enjoy it over and over again.
Sergio Caruana, the difference is, you are killing for pleasure - this is what is morally, wrong. Check your bible. If you want meat, then go and buy it. You hunt because you get a thrill out of the kill. It is this that you will have to ultimately answer for to St Peter. The killing for pleasure.
Also you are shooting quail with shotguns. Where is this 'sporting chance' you talk of?
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 13:33
@ Mr Jesmond Micallef
We're not living in caves anymore, If someone wants to abort just take a pill or go to the next door clinic remove the baby and dump it. We are civilized now, aren't we? I remember many years ago that people with tattoo they were called hamalli and dangerous and caveman, today it's a fashion. People changed for better or for worst?
Sergio Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 13:47
Chris Finch the hunters are not 100% accurate and the bird always has a chance of being missed. On the other hand a chicken has no chance. However. you haven't answered my question. Isn't killing a bird and a chicken just the same or actually worse because the chicken has no chance to escape? How can you defend a bird and not at the same time defend a chicken? Buying it at the butcher still means thatthe chicken is killed Mr Finch.
David Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 10:51
I am not paying this time.
Dr.Gonzi, you have been warned and you still went ahead with opening a Spring Hunting season, which was ridiculous for the hunters as well, so you didn't earn any brownie points or votes there.
V Falzon
Jul 29th 2010, 10:46
@SVella
"I ask these Honorouble Politicians to come forth and defend the issues they gave us guarantee of! "
Jeez man, ġej bil-guarantee! They took you for a ride, it is what politicians do. Deal with it, and stop whining.
Johnny Xerri
Aug 1st 2010, 09:51
If you are happy to have politicians taking you for ride, I and the rest of the hunters are not. So we will, whether you like it or not continue to fight for our rights, political and legal expections.
Don't worry we will deal with it, if not now, in 2013
marco meli
Jul 29th 2010, 10:43
How ironic indeed!! The eu is more concerened about turtle doves and quails than the environment!! Opps I forgot that according to birdlife we blast millions out of the skies every year! As a hunter i merly used to catch from 2 to 3 every sping, weather and wind direction permitting that is! But on the other hand we can have contractors developing everywhere and our counrtyside is vanishing little by little. Did or will the eu say anything?NO!! Nor did the eu comment when someone built a villa in our qabru's (freshwater crab) habitat thus endengaring the species! What amazes me that in other countries spring hunting is PERMITTED! So why are we bullied?????
Paul Debono
Jul 29th 2010, 10:49
Spring hunting is NOT permitted anywhere else in the EU.
D.Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 11:14
@Paul Debono.
You are WRONG.
Spring hunting IS practised in other EU countries. Get your facts right please!!
stefan micallef
Jul 29th 2010, 18:10
Keep on dreaming!! Even the EU has accepted that SPRING HUNTING IS LEGAL, this besides the Rabbit Hunting Season and the Autumn Hunting Season!!
G.Pisani
Jul 29th 2010, 10:39
Dear PM, please send the bill to FKNK. I do not want to pay for a fine where I did nothing wrong. Isn't this a breach in human rights? Pay for something I did not do?
marco meli
Jul 29th 2010, 11:04
He should send it to Dr fenech adami who promissed hunters that things will only change for the better thus ensuring his way to the EU! So the armier boathouses cannot be removed as they have a letter from the primeminister and then our letter doesn't count!
Franco Farrugia
Jul 29th 2010, 10:20
I really wish it. Oh, I really wish that 'fresh action' is taken against our Malta - since we are unable to manage our affaris the non-troglodoyte way. Can't we see the changes taking place all around us? However some people might interpret it, yesterday, history was made, and in a positive way, in Spain, namely in Catalonia, a region where bullfights are NOW banned! And this, in spite of the fact that it was 'traditional' for bullfighting to take place. Can't we see the signs of the times and that we, the Maltese, cannot continue behaving as the cavemen did so long ago - and not only in hunting but on many other issues! I sincerely hope that hunters and trappers realise that times have changed and what was acceptable yesterday is no longer acceptable today - and what was inacceptable yesterday can be acceptable today. We have to change with the times. And we have to keep our ears to the ground and listen to what Earth is telling us.
David Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 10:47
AMEN
g.c.Forte
Jul 29th 2010, 10:09
Dear hunters and trappers, Why don`t you accept the fact that your " what so called hobby !!** " is coming to the end, thanks to the YES votes which MOST OF YOU gave to help the P.N.... A. To join the E.U. ( li kisritkhom ), and B. To steal the 2008 general election. " Kontu tafu li ser jitmejlu bikhom, u xorta tajtuhom il vot, bhal ma ser tghamlu 3 snin ohra " MELA HAQQKHOM . As I always tells you, you should quit hunting and get another hobby, there are thousands to choose from.
M.Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 10:23
Mr. Forte
Well, very interesting, if only you clarify what on earth you are trying to say. On the one hand you seem to be lambesting the hunters for their silly killing hobby, on the other hand you seem to be criticising the hunters intelligence and voting capabilities and yet still you seem to be confirming that the majority will be voting PN again in the next election (because labour cannot form a decent rudder for Malta).
Let me just remind you who really stole elections (with proof and factual) and who double crossed who.
Labour 1981 - Majority (people's wishes) vote PN - Labour Govern because they get more seats (not people's wishes). Labour refraim from calling a fresh election and govern till the very last day the constitution allowed it. (unlike successive PN governments)
Labour 1971-1987, Beatings, killings, drstruction of business and homes, Malta becomes considered by the international community as a SEMI-FREE country
Labour 1996-1998
Government promises to remove VAT and instead gives a higher tax rate (as much as 21%) and calls it CET
MLP Government cannot be trusted and loses various members
Government governs on deciet
Tries to stop PN from having a TV channel.
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 10:33
PN or PL...this is a national issue over which the entire country seems united against a few thousand who are holding the nation to ransom. Get their hobby out or get them out. Either way is good for me
Joe Bugeja
Jul 29th 2010, 10:41
M.Gauci remember when the PN tried to steal the 1971 election even though it had many thousands of votes less then the PL?
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 10:44
can we move on from this ludicrous voting squabble please? this is way of topic.
M.Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 10:50
Mr. Joe Bugeja.
Now let me see the PN governed in 1971, did it?
Silly me for thinking it was the MLP who goverend. Joe, try as you might, you will never re-write history. Facts remain 1971-1987 Labour governed Malta. 1981 - 1987 Malta voted for PN - Labour still governed and till the very last day it was allowed to do.
Bitter pill I know, but those are the facts. You are just supporting the wrong party, you don't need to sell your soul to defend it by twisting facts.
marco meli
Jul 29th 2010, 10:57
@ m gauci
You seem a very keen pn supporter sir! So I may assume that you will remember the promisses given in written to all hunters and trappers that their hobbies will only change for the better signed by our ex-primeminister dr eddie fenech adami with the blessing of the then EU commissioner for malta gunther verhoigen ehh? The EU was well aware what was going on as promisses where even issued by the EU information center so what is happening now? Are we being BULLIED or someone just promissed us a BIG FAT LIE?Can you illuminate me sir pls?? I and others will apreciate.
g.c.Forte
Jul 29th 2010, 11:09
1.......Mr.M.Gauci......... For you ( the P.N.) the world started in the 70`s. You are wrong. In the 30`s and 60`s there were the most obscenity were it comes to elections, coming from the P.N. and the church, against Strikland party and the M.L.P.... Beatings, killings, ect.. ect.. Unfortunately these came from both sides " do not play it as a saint " . VAT or CET for me means the same, fork out money. I think that this is the 100 times that I have explained the true fact of the 1981` elections." IN 1974`s 29 OUT OF 35 MEMBERS OF PARLIAMENT VOTED IN FAVOR OF OUR CONSTITUTION. MEANS THAT ONLY 6 VOTED AGAINST ( G.B.O.gang ). WERE IT COMES TO ELECTIONS, IT STATED THAT THE PARTY WHICH BRINGS THE MAJORITY OF SEATS WILL GOVERN. IN 81 THE P.N GAINED 4123 VOTES MORE VOTES THAN THE M.L.P. BUT THE M.L.P. HAD 34 SEATS AGAINST THE 31 OF THE P.N..... SO, IF THE M.L.P REFUSES TO GOVERN, IT IS AGAINST OUR CONSTITUTION, IF THE P.N. TOOK THE GOVERNMENT IT WOULD BE AGAINST OUR CONSTITUTION. SO THE M.L.P. HAD NO OTHER CHOICE, BUT TO GOVERN, BECAUSE OUR CONSTITUTION SAID SO................................
M.Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 11:17
Macro Meli
As I said in other articles I am really not that much for or against hunters, but I thread on the side of against hunting (not hunters), I'm not a hunter and if there was a referendum I would vote against it (hunting not hunters), but the fact that there are hunters (when the law permits it, does not fuss me that much).
You however seem to forget that in times gone by, burning so called witches was allowed, maybe even got promises from the Pope that they would continue. The world moves on, a different sentiment grows and things will have to change. Like divorce will HAVE TO ENTER MALTA, even if Dr. Gonzi is against it. It is only a matter of time.
Whatever promises you got were true and re-enforcing that promise, you have the government bending over backwards spending thousands of Euro to defend the hunters cause (it does not really bring any collective good, so its money down the drain)
However, please note that it is the European Court of Justice which changed things. Malta must obey the ruling, because it is the right thing to do and illegal not to.
Joe Bugeja
Jul 29th 2010, 11:21
M.Gauci perhaps you are too young to remember or have not read your history, but the fact is that when the election was held in 1971 the PN tried to hang to power requesting many recounts because it could not swallow the fact that it had lost the seat in the Qormi/Zebbug district and would have governed had it won the seat notwithstanding that it had a minority of votes and PL had thousands of votes more. At the time it had also changed the number of seats in every electoral district to get more seats, in other words the PN resorted to gerrymandering as it always does. In 1987 the Constitution still provided that the party that got the greatest number of seats governed and that is exactly what the PL. This is apart from what other readers have reminded you of, such as gerrymandering, the false Terinu oath and the barefaced lied by Dr Fenech Adami on Dr Sant, all on the eve of the general election. These are only little instances of the stinking history of the PN Gauci.
M.Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 11:31
G.C Forte
Again you write very unclearly.
No one wrote here saying the constitution (not the people's wishes) did not allow Labour to govern in 1981. Show us where anyone wrote saying it was illegal? What was written...well was written and I don't need to repeat. Don't selectively read what you like.
VAT/CET the same for you cause you fork out money? Man for one, you forked out a max of 15% (that time) with CET you forked out a max of 21%. It was so fair that the minister of finance of the time, resigned because he did not want to be part of it. Stop twisting facts.
Pre-70s? Of yes we can go there, even 7000 years ago and the first settlers if you want? Where shall we start, the Boffa / Mintoff saga and how Mintoff double faced Boffa in the UK and Malta? If you backstab your own friends, no wonder you have no reservations to do the same with the people of Malta.
The ship building insubordination of the late 60s instigated by Labour opposition of the time?
Tell us Mr. whichever 7000 years of history you want if it's that what you're looking for.
M.Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 11:40
Joe Bugeja
I am old enough to remember all you mention, and I also remember the PN conceeding defeat and going into opposition. Whatever point you are trying to raise, when it was the MLP governed in 1971 is really never going to help your argument. Silly you never mention 1981 when FACTUALLY, MLP governed against your and my wishes.
Don't go into the gerrymandering bit please, MLP did all it could using that tactic, even just before the 1987 election and again tried to do it in 1996-1998.
PS. The constitution was changed to reflect the people's wishes a bit before the 1987 election, because (1) It was obvious that there was going to be trouble amongst the nation and (2) it was changed with the neutrality clause hanging around the PN's neck. What do they have in common? Nothing, it was just Labour's way of bullying
Joe Bugeja
Jul 29th 2010, 11:41
Slight correction. I meant the 1981 and not the 1987 Constitution.
Joe Bugeja
Jul 29th 2010, 14:01
M.Gauci the neutrality clause was part of the package. You negotiate and you get some and lose some. Can you tell us what is wrong with being neutral and not align yourself especially with military powers? What is wrong in keeping your distance from military powers and their interventions in other countries affairs especially illegal ones? What is wrong in not aligning yourself with them and risk being targeted by the opposite side? Didn't Malta have to enter into more than enough wars and be targeted by the other side? Do you want to risk your and your family's lives and Malta's destruction? Shipbuilding insubordination in the late 60's????? Mintoff did not double-face Boffa and Malta but kept to what Parliament had agreed and did not track back. As for 1971 you can rest assured that PL did not govern against my wishes. As for Labour governing it governed according to the Constitution which I have no doubt that the PN considers it as just a bit of paper. By the way, gerrymandering is the PN trademark throughout their history.
M.Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 15:15
Umm, the Neutrality clause had nothing to do with who should govern Malta. It was put there on purpose, at that time.
They had 16 years to put it in, they chose that particular moment and on a subject that had absolutly nothing to do with it.
The reason was obvious, so that the PN would not agree with it and the whole constitution thing would evaporate into thin air and labour would govern AGAIN against the will of the majority. Your vote and mine.
Gerrymandering again? You and GC forte, another labourite like you, seem not to agree on this one. He admits Labour did resort to gerrymandering, you dont. Talking of kamikazi comments with little substance!
As for what Mintoff did to Boffa and the shipbuilding insubordiantion which you deny. My friend, these are recorded as facts in history. I know it is hard for you to admit that the party you support managed to go so low, but you can continue denying them on your own, enjoy it.
Ta ra.
Joe Bugeja
Jul 29th 2010, 16:38
M.Gauci My friend, the Mintoff-Boffa clash is recorded in history and no one can deny it and that it was because Mintoff did not want to go back on what Parliament had decided while Boffa was weak. As for shipbuilding in the 1960's it did not exist.
As for gerrymandering, the PN changed the number of seats and districts in order to get more seats with less votes and would have succeeded except for a few votes on the Qormi-Zebbug district which saw the seat won by Labour. Apart from the number of counts on this district on the demand of the PN, PN later tried to buy Anglu l-Bedeq from Gozo to cross over because Mintoff had a one-seat majority and the people who tried it were sent to prison. As for terinati there was the original one in the 1930's perpetrated on Lord Strickland, there was the one pulled by GBO at the umbrella meeting at Paola which is found in Dr Herbert Ganada's Rajt Malta tinbidel Volume IV, there was also the one on Dr Sant on the eve of the election and what can we expect nowthan another Terinata on the eve of the next election?
M.Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 17:13
Hilarious, Boffa was weak according to you, so backstab your government :)
You keep on harping about 1971 when MLP governed, not the PN - you fail to mention 1981 which turned out the other way round. Dry on arguments?
PS. Shipyards timeline, here you go - now if you want to (try) win an argument over the name of a firm that was establish in 75... go ahead. Fact remains, we all remember the insubordination in the late 60s at the shipyards...which died down when Mintoff came to power in 71.
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20100330/local/the-end-of-an-era
Honestly, this was now the last.
Joe Bugeja
Jul 29th 2010, 22:31
Backstab Mr M.Gauci? No. Not backstabbing, but upholding what was decided by Parliament. If that's backstabbing for you for me and I am sure for many others it's not backstabbing at all but honesty and keeping your word and not backtracking on what was decided.
1981? The Labour Government governed according to the Constitution. No more no less. That's what the PN would have done in 1971 had it got the third seat in the fifth district notwithstanding it got a lot less votes than the MLP.
1971 5th District PN votes 8130 MLP votes 8151
1971 Total Votes PN 80753 MLP votes 85448
At least the MLP after the 1971 election made all the districts with the same number of 5 seats unlike what the PN had done before the 1971 election.
1971 election PN changed the number of seats in the electoral districts like this.
1 st district 5 seats
2 nd district 6 seats
3 rd district 6 seats
4 th district 5 seats
5 th district 5 seats
6 th district 5 seats
7 th district 6 seats
8 th district 6 seats
9 th district 6 seats
10 th district 5 seats
Jesmond Mifsud
Jul 29th 2010, 10:09
Why does the Government find it so difficult to understand the majority of Maltese citizens do not agree with hunting! Oh, yes, that's right, they're too afraid of the primitive hunters who have, on many occasions, resorted to bullying and violence to get their way. In the mean time, we're all paying for these fines through taxes. I find it deplorable that I'm paying for someone's barbaric and disgusting "hobby" for which I'm in total opposition of.
To all hunters: why can't you just find a more productive pass-time such as painting, model-building, reading, watching movies or anything that involves creating something rather than killing defenseless creatures? Does it make you feel like a real macho-man to go cavorting around with huge cannons and blasting feathered animals out of the sky?
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 14:17
"To all hunters: why can't you just find a more productive pass-time such as painting, model-building, reading, watching movies or anything that involves creating something rather than killing defenseless creatures? Does it make you feel like a real macho-man to go cavorting around with huge cannons and blasting feathered animals out of the sky?"
Jaqaw ghandek xi hanut tal-Craft li sejjer lura? Issa min ghada l-biccerija u l pixkerija jinghalqu ha jikkuntentawk, Stupid is stupid does.
stefan micallef
Jul 29th 2010, 16:16
"we're all paying for these fines through taxes"
I cant understand what fines your talking about try make a decent point!
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 09:58
I hope the Commission squeeze us dry with fines. Then the government might see sense and ban this cruelty once and for all.
Tell my, humble Prime Minister...what is the difference between hunting and dog fightng? Dog fighting and human torture? The latter two are illegal, that's for certain, but dog fighting and human torture have been around for centuries.
Wake up, you incompetent mess of a government
Carmelo Briffa
Jul 29th 2010, 09:58
Forsi anka certu festsi nazzjonali jgeghluna innehu. Bhal ezempju jum l-INDIPENDEZA, HELSIEN u jum ir- REPUBLIkA, ghax daqt inkunu kamandati totalment mill- E.U.
Karmnu.
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 10:05
Briffa,
Ghadek lanqas biss taf kemm nhobb 'l pajjizna. Izda xi kultant, hekk ghandna bzonn, ghax il-gvern mandux kompetenza jmexxi pajjizna wahdu.
Peter Spiteri
Jul 29th 2010, 10:28
Carmelo Briffa siehbi, diga' ahna kkmandati f'kollox mill-EU. Kif jghid haddiehor, irridu nfittxu nitilqu halli nsalvaw dak li ghad ghandna u ma nibqghux skjavi taghhom.
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 10:31
Be my guest, Spiteri, I surely won't miss you
Peter Spiteri
Jul 29th 2010, 10:43
Mark Seychell don't worry. I won't either
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 10:51
I have no intention of leaving. I am happy with the EU forcing you to give up your hobby
Peter Spiteri
Jul 29th 2010, 11:24
Mark Seychell it's not what you do or think, but what the majority will say and do at the right moment.
edward bartolo
Jul 29th 2010, 11:24
Quote: "Carmelo Briffa siehbi, diga' ahna kkmandati f'kollox mill-EU. Kif jghid haddiehor, irridu nfittxu nitilqu halli nsalvaw dak li ghad ghandna u ma nibqghux skjavi taghhom."
L-Ewropa hija s-suq principali li ghandna qrib taghna. Dak Afrikan zgur li ma jistax ihabbatha ma' dak Ewropew, minhabba l-fatt, li fl-Ewropa hemm livell ta' ghajxien u edukazzjoni ferm ghola mill-Afrika ta' fuq.
Jekk Malta titlaq mill-Ewropa, tkun qed iddardar l-unika ghajn tajba li tista' tixrob minnha. Tippretendix li taghmel kummerc ma' l-Ewropa minghajr ma toqghod ghar-regoli taghha, anke jekk ma tkunx membru. Barraminhekk, ghandu jkun car il-fatt li Malta hija zghira wisq biex tkun f'pozizzjoni li tiddetta lill-Ewropa.
Jiddispjanicini, imma r-realta' xtaqtha kienet izjed favur Malta. Kif jghidu, "Mill-hazin hu li tista'" u nistghu niehdu xi haga billi nkunu membri, mhux billi nurtawhom u niggieldu maghhom. B'li niehdu xi haga qed nifhem li jaghmlu kummerc maghna u ahna maghhom; iz-zmien tac-cejciet minghajr impenn, issa jidher li ghadda.
Joe Gauci
Jul 29th 2010, 11:43
Qed tinsa l-bqija tad-dinja kollha sur edward bartolo
Paul Farrugia
Jul 29th 2010, 11:46
Habib tieghi edward bartolo, kif jghid il-qawl Malti, konna hafna ahjar meta konna aghar. Imma xorta wahda ghad nistghu nirrangaw is-sitwazzjoni billi nitilqu kif qed jghidu hafna u inutli li tippruvaw tbezzghu lill-poplu ghax issa kulhadd jaf verament xi tfisser l-Unjoni Ewropea. Meta poplu jiddeciedi hadd u xejn ma jista' jzommu.
M.Cachia
Jul 29th 2010, 12:13
Comments like Karmnu's belong in the middle ages when countries could be self-sufficient, that time has past and we now are in a global economy (or maybe he'd like to be insular like North Korea - big sucess story there). It also reminds me of old people grumbling that they have to live in a residential homes while forgetting that thier quality of life would be much worse if they were to live on thier own.
Carmelo BrIffa
Jul 29th 2010, 13:26
Sur Cachia,
Ghall informazzjoni tighek jien kont minn dejjem u attiv kontra min azzarda johodna ma' il blokk li qed isemmi. L- ISLANDISI ga qed juru li meta jsir referendum dwar id dhul fl'EU jintilef.
Isma lill-POPLU , malajar tkun taf x'qed ihoss, jew forsi int xi wiehed qed tpappija tajjeb bis sahha tal vot taghna favur l-EU.
Jien la hadt, la tlabt u lanqas irrid xejn.Kull ma ried li jinzammu il-weghdi.
Imma li iggib il-POPLU servili tal EU, JEW XI PAJJIZ IEHOR QATT U QATT
Karmnu.
M.Cachia
Jul 29th 2010, 15:03
Good of you to mention Iceland - they did very well by being out of the economic block - not even touched by the recession. Oh and to counter your argument - Slovenia, Slovakia, The czeck republic, Lithuania, latvia, Estonia, Poland, Bulgaria, Romania, Cyprus and Malta show you that when a referendum is done on EU entry it gets won. You sir have a one track mind - look at the larger picture Economic unity has strengthened the island as we now form part of a community and now have to basically act as a civilised country.
Maybe I qualify as one who is doing well off the EU - I can do my post-graduate studies and further my knowledge because of EU funding.
Carmelo Brifffa
Jul 29th 2010, 17:18
Prosit ghalik Sur Cachia issa ser thallatna ma pajjizi ghar minna, anke lil dawn dejju.
Kieku sar Referendum dwar it- TRATTAT TA' LISBONA kien jghaddi mil pajjizi kolla tal EU?
Dik demokrazijja!!!!!
Allura qabel ma dhalna f'EU IL- POPLU kien Gahan u issa ha tilhaq int u hadd ma jibqa Gahan,
Nawguralek kull succes ghax tighaj ga ghamiltu.
Stella Vella
Jul 29th 2010, 17:31
Correction Mr M.Cachia. Because of a lot of money that we are paying the EU. Other correspondents have shown many times what we are paying the EU and that we are far worse off in than out of the EU.
S Vella
Jul 29th 2010, 09:52
I ask these Honorouble Politicians to come forth and defend the issues they gave us guarantee of! At least to defend their own integrity with thousands of Maltese citizens who trusted them.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYgag85Rttk&feature=player_embedded
http://kaccaturi.com/eddie.html
L. Farrugia
Jul 29th 2010, 09:47
hope that no more new taxes are imposed on the poplation so that the govenment will be able to pay any fines which he will be ordered to pay by the EU. Hope that this is not one of the reasons why decreases in the income tax promised by the minister in the budget did not materialise. We are fed up with trhis issue. The government have to decide once and for ever as he did on several other issues.
joesph galea
Jul 29th 2010, 09:35
What is really obscene is the murder of the young egret and the wounding of the sibling born on our island.
The cowboy/s who downed it must be really proud.
Real champions, shooting down a bird who had just taken to flight. A real marksman.
Pity we do not have SWAT teams as he/they would have been very qualified candidates.
Shame on you
joe the plumber
J oatmon
Jul 29th 2010, 09:29
I see on TV that the Catalunya province in Spain has just banned bullfighting.
So why is this significant - well it shows that centuries of 'tradition/cruel sport' (depending on your point of view), can be swept aside if the majority of the population does not approve of it. Nothing is forever, no matter how 'traditional' it is for some.
Here in Malta (and the EU) the majority of the population do not approve of men with guns shooting little birds, especially since many kills are protected species under the law.
Victor Spiteri
Jul 29th 2010, 09:51
Couldn't agree with you more!
Vasilisa Brandenburg
Jul 29th 2010, 10:11
Burning people alive for various reasons was also tradition. And is no more. Thus agreed fully with your comment. Some of us must change the habbits of old and mentality they have. Present time brings responsability and common sence, stop living like in medieval age.
Jesmond Mifsud
Jul 29th 2010, 10:14
Well said! I totally agree!! The majority of Maltese people do not support this disgusting tradition. Hunters are tarnishing Malta's image and causing untold damage to tourism on which we depend so much.
The only birds I've seen in Malta are sparrows and pigeons, all because of these gun-wielding apes who think they own the sky and everything in it. The whole situation is deplorable on so many different levels.
T Camilleri
Jul 29th 2010, 10:23
not now J oatmon, but after two more years.
Paul Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 10:25
Vasilisa Brandenburg can you tell us what country you come from and what they do in your country?
Vasilisa Brandenburg
Jul 29th 2010, 10:39
@ Paul Caruana. I come from north pole. Did you ask this as invitation to blind date or was it yet another comment based on a foreign surname?
Carmelo Briffa
Jul 29th 2010, 10:42
Ms,Brandenburg,
Most of the worst atrocities around the world were and are commited agianst humans and environment by the powerful countries of the EU, who are renowned producers of catastrophic armaments.
Karmu.
Paul Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 11:28
Vasilisa Brandenburg you can rest assured that I don't need you date. How about telling us your country so that everyone can check what happens in your country? Or are you afraid that the people will discover that much more atrocities including abortion are committed in your country?
Anthony Formosa
Jul 29th 2010, 12:59
Yeah, we should also abolish Christmas turkeys, Easter lambs, and Imnarja rabbits. Such traditions are discriminatory over the rest.
Vasilisa Brandenburg
Jul 29th 2010, 14:03
Ahh I see... when left with no arguments we turn to 'whats done in your country' attitude... nice one... So much for the good christian values of conversation and dicussion with reason and common sence.
Paul Caruana
Jul 29th 2010, 15:14
Vasilisa Brandenburg we want to discuss what happens your country. The truth of what happens. So you want to hide what happens in your country because you would otherwise have told us Vasilisa Brandenburg. Go on. Don't be shy Vasilisa. What have you to hide anout your country?
Vasilisa Brandenburg
Jul 30th 2010, 09:34
My dear Paul Caruana discussion with you is like with 5 years old child who see a toy in the shop and keeps on going ...Mum I want this toy, Mum I want this toy... Arguments on the subject Mr. Caruana and not changing subject from the text we comment on.
lgalea
Jul 29th 2010, 09:28
Why doesn't the eu commission petty dictators shove their orders up theirs and stop picking on tiny Malta?
G.Debono
Jul 29th 2010, 10:04
Because it seems to break the ECJ judgement, and two wrongs will never ever make a right, and Malta should not be immune just because you don't like it when somebody else tries to put our house in order and defend the common Maltese people, since the government and opposition prostitute themselves with hunters and worse still people like Joe Muscat and the Labour clan make working groups with hunters rather than push them aside and make working groups with environmentalists.
Notwithstanding, when you call for EU Commission to shove it up theirs, you forget you are asking for it to be shoved up yours, because as a Maltese/EU citizen, you, as in your country, form part of the EU commission itself.
lgalea
Jul 29th 2010, 10:22
G.Debono the commission does not care about any country but only about the eu itself. They only pick on petty things on Malta but how many times have they picked on Germany, France etc?
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 10:35
Galea? Is this a petty thing?????
God help me, I wish you a were a bird, I really do. Then you may see how petty this is.
C. Borg
Jul 29th 2010, 13:44
Mr Seycell,
When the same bird is a pest in another EU country, or even in the world, but because we in Malta are small don't have crops and water so the bird can stay here, by hunting some we are doing no harm. It is not a species that is going extint.....
Don't eat meat, because the cow / chicken / pork was alive too.....
We are giving too much importance to the birds life instead to the killing (abortion) of children. Do you have the same consistancy.... Did you go to protest, did you write on the foreign newspapers to show your disaproval, or you didn't care........ But for a bird you're writing.
Traditions are to be kept. Otherwise our calture will finish
Carmelo Aquilina
Jul 29th 2010, 14:23
Mr Galea, I am grateful to the EU for doing the right thing instead of letting the hunters blackmail every government we've had.... many people are grateful for that !
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 21:45
Mr Borg.
I do not mind for one bit of hunting for food. It is the way of the world. The lion hunts the zebra. But if you think for one second that hunters in Malta hunt solely for food, then you are deluded
P.Borg
Jul 29th 2010, 09:12
Nigbru 4 voti u nahlu l- multi ghalihom. Hekk sewwa!! Kollu tort ta' nies inkompetenti.
Ernest Vella
Jul 29th 2010, 09:12
Kemm gammiem inizzlu pajiizi ohra fl-Ewropa? u kemm jistghu inizzlu?
Martin Spiteri
Jul 29th 2010, 09:52
Ma tistax tqabbel pajjizi ohra ma Malta, jew jekk nigu f'dan, pajjiz ma' pajjiz iehor. Tinsiex li Malta zghira hafna, igifieri huwa mistenni li jkun hawn hafna inqas ghasaf. Tinsiex wkoll il- posizzjoni geografika ta Malta, li huwa punt krucjali fl-imiggrazzjoni ta' l-ghasafar.
Igifieri idealment ma nqablux pajjizi ohra maghna, u mhux fuq kacca biss.
Jekk nigu f'dak, Cipru ghandhom taxxa irhas, l-Germana jahdmu inqas sieghat minna, misna naghmlu bhalhom wkoll.
Steve Zammit
Jul 29th 2010, 10:16
http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/conservation/wildbirds/hunting/docs/turtle_dove.pdf
R. C Conti
Jul 29th 2010, 09:03
We deserve it since we do not have the guts to say NO to hunting!!
Mark Seychell
Jul 29th 2010, 10:02
Agreed