Stopping spring hunting because of illegalities could soon see the autumn season next on the chopping block, according to the pro hunting lobby.

Addressing a press conference in Buskett, pro spring hunting spokeswoman Kathleen Grima said hunters should not all be punished for the actions of a few.

She said that if spring hunting was banned because of illegalities, it would not be long before the same people who instigated the upcoming referendum, set their sights on the autumn season.

Dr Grima conceded that hunting illegalities occurred but insisted these had decreased, as had been indicated by figures published by both the government and conservationists. 

“We want to be upfront about the illegalities that occur. We have no respect for those that still do not want to accept that the days of free for all are long gone,” she said, adding that punishing all hunter’s collectively was not an option.

Dr Grima also referred to a point raised by anti spring hunting campaigner Moira Delia during a televised debate yesterday. Ms Delia had said the costs of policing the spring hunting season far outweighed the cost of holding a referendum. The last referendum on divorce cost around €4million.

Dr Grima, however, said the enforcement and studies carried out related to hunting and trapping were financed by the licensing fees forked out by hunters.