Anti-hunting campaigners yesterday called on voters to take a decision over an issue that has scared politicians for years.

“For decades our politicians have been frightened to deal with hunting because hunters have threatened them with their votes.

“Today, Parliament goes on Easter recess, and the public will be taking the next major decision on the country’s future. Every person has the chance to vote in the referendum and take a decision for the country,” spokeswoman Moira Delia said as SHout (Spring Hunting Out) campaigners met outside Parliament.

Addressing a press conference in St George’s Square in Valletta, Ms Delia said the Prime Minister and Opposition leader were leaving it up to the electorate to decide how to vote.

“Both Joseph Muscat and Simon Busuttil as party leaders have given us a free vote. This is not a political issue – we are free to vote according to our conscience. We urge everyone to collect their voting card, take their seat in Parliament and decide on this issue,” she said, insisting people had the power to change the future.

Speaking at the same conference, another spokesman, Mark Sultana, said more than 40,000 people, or 10 per cent of Maltese voters, had signed the petition calling for the referendum.

“This is a historic moment for our country, as this is the first time that a people’s referendum is being held. Now it’s up to all of us to make it count.”