MHRA calls for ‘zero tolerance’ on illegal hunting

Reported incidents related to illegal hunting have raised serious concerns among operators in the tourism industry, the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA) said.

The MHRA president Tony Zahra said "Malta needs to stop shooting itself in the foot economically speaking"

 "Hunting in Malta is highly controversial especially amongst tourists who due to our island's small size easily come across hunters in the country side and also close to urban areas," he noted.

The statement added that hunting disturbs a considerable number of people and if these happen to be foreigners who consciously decide to opt to holiday in another destination because of hunting than, "this will start generating a negative economic affect which we all cannot afford especially during these very difficult economic times "

The association pointed out that the tourism industry generates 30% of GDP and 35% of government's revenues and if this is threatened by incidents related to illegal hunting than it could translate into an economic problem which will eventually impact everyone including even families of hunters.

"We must bear in mind that there are 35,000 people whose livelihood depends on tourism and these jobs are spread throughout the various economic strata," MHRA said.

The association called on the government to invest more in education and awareness campaigns highlighting that respect for the environment does not only contribute to a healthier society but also pays economically.

"MHRA also appeals to the NGOs in this field to work together to ensure that government takes the necessary steps to eradicate any form of abuse related to illegal hunting practices but more significantly to encourage niche tourism initiatives that sustainably promote amongst tourists the natural beauty of the Maltese islands."