(Adds AD statement)

Prime Minister Joseph Muscat has not ruled out the possibility of changing the abrogative referendum law to block a referendum on spring hunting, as proposed by the hunters’ federation.

As Malta officially closes its spring hunting season tomorrow, Dr Muscat stressed he was in favour of the controversial practice, which once again has triggered off widespread condemnation.

Times of Malta is informed the government has informally told FKNK members that it will go along with their proposal to block the referendum if they manage to gather a good number of thousands of signatures in their ongoing petition.

Dr Muscat insisted that spring hunting must continue, irrespective of whether a referendum is held.

Asked directly whether his government was actually considering changing the law as the hunters had demanded, Dr Muscat said he would wait for the petition.

“There is an ongoing petition by the hunters asking for a change in the law and we will see.

“However, this is not a question of law. I think that the Leader of the Opposition is abstaining again on this issue. My position is clearly in favour of spring hunting.”

In a statement, Alternattiva Demokratika deputy chairman Carmel Cacopardo said both the Labour and Nationalist governments have clearly indicated they prefer backroom deals when dealing with hunting issues.

“The Labour Party has positioned itself clearly in favour of spring hunting and against the basic principles of biodiversity. The Nationalist Party is still trying to have a foot on each side of the fence. It remains as spineless as ever,” he said.

Mr Cacopardo said backroom deals were a negation of democracy.

“The procedures to call an abrogative referendum are, in the current state of affairs the only democratic tool left to contest the spring hunting season," he said.

More on Timesofmalta.com Premium