Authorities say legal action to be taken in case of illegal keeping of dangerous animals in Naxxar

The Veterinary Regulation Directorate (VRD) within the Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Animal Rights, in collaboration with the Police, is actively investigating a case involving the housing of dangerous animals on a farm located within the

By: independent.com.mt

Jan 06 2025
0
1 Views

The investigation follows a report made by a concerned member of the public. Several individuals, including the farm's owners, have been interrogated regarding the case. The directorate said that legal action is to be taken.

Initial findings indicate that the enclosure housing the animals is not registered in compliance with Subsidiary Legislation 439.19, the Owning and Keeping of Dangerous Animals Regulations. These regulations outline the procedures for registering dangerous animals, transferring ownership, and ensuring their proper care.

Under the legislation, a dangerous animal must be kept in an adequate and safe enclosure that meets its specific health, cleanliness, and microclimatic needs. Written approval from the Director is required before such animals can be brought onto any site.

The animals identified on the farm include four lions and one leopard, all classified as dangerous animals under Schedule B of SL 439.19. Veterinary professionals from the VRD inspected the premises and conducted assessments of the animals' health and living conditions.

Veterinary evaluations indicated that the animals are generally in good physical condition, although one lion is exhibiting signs of an orthopaedic condition that requires further attention. Contrary to media reports, no evidence of dead lions was found at the site.

The site is currently being monitored to ensure the animals remain secure and do not pose a threat to public safety. Steps have been taken to ensure the animals are being fed and kept in a clean environment to meet their basic welfare needs. Additionally, the VRD is exploring various options, including the relocation of the animals to suitable facilities that meet all welfare and safety standards.

Legal action will be pursued against the alleged offenders in accordance with the Veterinary Services Act and the Animal Welfare Act, the statement said.

The authorities reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding the welfare of the animals and ensuring public safety during this ongoing investigation. Measures are being taken to address the immediate needs of the animals while working towards a long-term solution that upholds the standards outlined in the regulations.

For its part, the Office of the Commissioner for Animal Welfare said Monday it has received numerous reports and requests for action regarding this case, prompting the issuance of this formal clarification. Whilst we express our deep concern for the welfare and treatment of these majestic animals and are closely monitoring the situation, the responsibility for finding a solution to this issue lies with the Veterinary Regulations Directorate (VRD).

The Commissioner's Office is not authorised to intervene or act directly in this case. However, should it become apparent that the VRD has failed to respond promptly or appropriately, the Commissioner's Office retains the authority to investigate the functions and workings of the VRD as per article 44A of the Animal Welfare Act. As of now, there is no indication that the VRD has acted inadequately, and we await further developments.

The Commissioner's Office said it is in ongoing communication with the VRD and is aware of the various options being considered to ensure the safety and improved living conditions of these animals. At this stage, we have visibility into which specific solution will be implemented or the timeline for its execution. We have made it clear to the VRD that swift action is essential to secure the well-being of these animals.

It is important to note that captive wild animals cannot be released into the wild as they lack the necessary survival skills to fend for themselves. Additionally, sending them abroad to sanctuaries is a viable option but poses significant challenges. There are very few sanctuaries available, and these animals would compete with other wildlife in even more dire situations, such as those from warzones, which are in greater need of safe havens, the office said.

In addition, the Commissioner's Office said it plays a crucial role in making recommendations to the Ministry responsible for Animal Welfare. In this instance, The Commissioner's recommendation is the development of an urgent and effective plan to identify illegal and unregulated wild animals in Malta and to prevent their proliferation. Malta's limited space and resources make it unsustainable to cater to the needs of such animals, particularly when they are abandoned, since the Government does not have the capacity or structure to care for these animals. A proactive approach is necessary to prevent animals suffering in captivity and to avoid the very real risk for wild animals escaping and causing further tragedies.

Ensuring the safety and welfare of animals under human care remains our utmost priority. We urge all relevant authorities to collaborate and take decisive action to uphold and enhance animal welfare standards in Malta, the commissioner said.