The Coalition for the Abolition of Spring Hunting this morning condemned the government’s decision to reduce the hunting curfew between September 15 and 30 by four hours.

Christian Debono, spokesperson for the coalition said this was a clear sign that there was little interest by the government in ensuring the conservation of migratory birds over the Maltese Islands.

"While not directly relevant to spring hunting, this decision indicates that the future of spring hunting must be put before the people," he said.

The coalition urged the Maltese public to sign its petition calling for a referendum to ban spring hunting.

"This is an opportunity to show that the Maltese population cares for wildlife, bird conservation and democracy," it said.