Animal welfare

It is ironic that Sandra Mifsud (The Sunday Times, July 24) points an accusing finger at all and sundry when it seems she needs to update herself on the Animal Welfare Act.

Let me state at the outset that by no means does Government consider animal welfare in Malta to be perfect or that no improvements are essential in this field. But it is highly unjust to give the impression that animal welfare has not been pushed to the forefront of Government's agenda over the past few years.

The creation of the administrative backbone through the establishment of the Animal Welfare Council and the Animal Welfare Unit within the Food and Veterinary Regulation Division (FVRD) highlights the determination to promote animal welfare.

The implementation of the Animal Welfare Act (Chapter 439 of the Laws of Malta) and other Legal Notices falling under the same Act ensures that negligence where animals are concerned is treated as a criminal offence and may result in either administrative sanctions that can reach Lm7,000 or a fine of Lm20,000. There are also provisions for imprisonment of up to one year, or both.

What may surprise Ms Mifsud is that even the interests she stands for are taken care of by the Animal Welfare Council: all animal welfare groups play an active role in determining the council's policy.

It is worthwhile to mention that Government is considering changes to the council's set-up and operations to make it more effective and efficient.

If Ms Mifsud knows of pet owners who are keeping their pets in small balconies with no shelter she should file a report with the FVRD or the police, and action will be taken accordingly. Any complaint about a certified veterinary surgeon may be made with the Veterinary Surgeons' Council.

There is a neutering campaign for animals, a small part of which was financed through a Community Chest Fund donation. The Animal Welfare Council has also finalised the Stray Animal Control Strategy, which was approved by the Animal Welfare Council and will be subject to a public hearing.

Ms Mifsud should be reminded of various other initiatives, like last year's ministry campaign - albeit limited - on the local media to highlight the issue of abandoned animals and pets.

May I ask Ms Mifsud two questions: Wouldn't it be in everyone's best interests if our energy were used to bring groups and individuals together to work for better animal welfare? Wouldn't this serve to create a better channel of communication with the authorities who have proved they are willing to listen and act in animals' best interests?

Mr Bezzina is communications co-ordinator at the Ministry of Rural Affairs and the Environment.