SHout spokespersons gathered outside Parliament today, the last day before the House rises for the Easter recess, to emphasise that it is the public that will take the next major decision on the country's future.

Moira Delia said politicians had been afraid to deal with hunting for decades because hunters threatened politicians with their vote.

Every person now had  the chance to vote in the referendum and take a decision for the country.

"Both Joseph Muscat and Simon Busuttil as party leaders have given us a free vote, they have left this for the people to decide.  This is not a political issue, we are free to vote according to our conscience. We urge everyone to collect their voting card, to take their seat in Parliament and decide on this issue."

Mark Sultana said more than 40,000 people, 10 per cent of Maltese voters, signed the petition to call for the referendum. "This is a historic moment for our country. Now it's up to all of us to make it count."