‘No’ to spring hunting campaign supporters gathered for a press conference in Birkirkara were today verbally abused by hunters, and their leaflets set fire to infront of the church, SHout said in a statement.

SHout said a young female activist was approached by a hunter and although others stepped in to calm the situation, the young woman was left shaken.

Hunters then took SHout campaign flyers and set fire to them.

Photo: SHout

Spokesman Mark Sultana said: "we utterly condemn this kind of bullying and harrassment. The referendum is a democratic process and the hunters need to respect that. People should be free to discuss this issue without fear and intimidation."

SHout campaigners were in Birkirkara to reiterate three messages, one being that people were aware that the hunters were not what they were portraying to be. Hunters proved this today when they let their mask slip, Mr Sultana said.

He said: "over the last years we have seen criminal activities by hunters which has also included prominent members of the FKNK. Take a look at the specific acts of violence, vandalism and more importantly at the hunter’s indiscriminate shooting practises in spring, which are well documented.”

Mr Sultana appealed to Birkirkara residents to appreciate the importance of their vote to bring about change.

“Change is what being positive is all about, we are a positive campaign which wants to give the country back to the people and the birds the chance to migrate and return to their breeding grounds. That is why SHout is appealing to the people in all of Malta and Gozo to go out and Vote No on April 11,” he said.