The hunters federation this morning appealed to its members for “calmness and cooperation” as it said it understood its members' hurt.

In a statement, the FKNK said its judicial protest regarding the closure of the hunting season would be followed by other legal procedures.

It said it had also had meetings with decision-makers and would persist with any legal actions it deemed necessary to put a definite stop to collective punishments.

The government suspended the hunting season up to October 10 on Saturday because of persistent shooting at protected birds. 

The FKNK then filed a judicial protest against the Prime Minister and the Minister for the Environment over their decision.

This morning, the federation said that, over the years, it weathered many storms and with the full backing of its members managed to survive and grow stronger.

“This has never been achieved through illegal actions, but through careful consideration and forward-looking decision-making, dedication, and backing and unity within its membership fold.”

It said its officials and lawyers have been very busy preparing objections to the proposed abrogative referendum to abolish spring hunting, which objectives have to be filed in the Constitutional Court by next week.

Finally, the FKNK which has already filed a Judicial Protest in Court regarding the closure of this hunting season, will follow with further legal procedures.  The FKNK has also had meetings with decision-makers, and will persist with any legal actions it deems necessary in order to put a definite stop to collective punishments.