Momentum welcomes appointment of new Animal Welfare Commissioner

Momentum has welcomed the appointment of Inspector Elliot Magro as Malta's new Commissioner for Animal Welfare, expressing hope his experience will lead to stronger enforcement of the country's animal welfare laws.

The party congratulated Magro on his appointment and wished him success in carrying out what it described as an important national responsibility.

Momentum noted several animal welfare NGOs have praised Magro's professionalism, commitment and dedication in handling animal cruelty cases during his tenure as head of the Environment Protection Unit. It said this reputation bodes well for a role that is central to improving animal welfare standards in Malta.

The party said the appointment comes at a time when Malta continues to face significant challenges in enforcing animal welfare legislation. Weak enforcement remains one of the main obstacles to protecting animals from neglect, abuse and exploitation, it said.

Momentum expressed hope the new commissioner would strengthen cooperation between the relevant authorities, improve enforcement and ensure that existing laws are applied consistently and effectively.

The party also urged the implementation of a number of proposals it says would significantly improve animal welfare standards in Malta.

These include introducing a positive list specifying which animal species may legally be kept as pets, appointing a dedicated Animal Protection Magistrate to oversee cases involving animal cruelty and welfare offences, and strengthening enforcement through increased inspections, better coordination between agencies and tougher action against repeat offenders.

Other proposals include establishing an independent Animal Welfare Advisory Council bringing together government, veterinarians, NGOs and experts to provide evidence-based policy advice, increasing investment in education and public awareness campaigns promoting responsible pet ownership, introducing stronger regulation of breeding, the sale and keeping of companion animals, and making the appointment of the Animal Welfare Commissioner more transparent through an open call followed by parliamentary approval.

Katya Compagno, a member of Momentum's executive, said the party looked forward to working constructively with Magro and other stakeholders to improve animal welfare in Malta.

"We believe that every animal deserves protection, and every citizen deserves confidence that the law will be enforced fairly and effectively," Compagno said. "We look forward to working constructively with Commissioner Magro and all stakeholders to help build a Malta where animal welfare is treated as a national priority rather than an afterthought."