‘They Are Terrified’: This Is How Fireworks Affect Farm Animals In Malta
For many citizens, fireworks are considered to be a part of our national heritage and a symbol of Maltese culture, especially when it comes to village feasts.
But apart from the noise and the dangers fireworks can bring, has Malta ever stopped to consider its effects on farm animals?
Lovin Malta spoke to Maltese farmers to find out more about the issue.
“The livestock will be terrified, they eat less and tend to stay in groups, pressed together into corners,” one farmer told the newsroom.
“As a result, we witness a reduction in the production of milk and eggs,” they explained.
“Even horses have to be taken away far from their stables.”
When asked, farmers said that they rarely found help from authorities to safeguard their livestock.
“When we try to speak to authorities they send us from one department to another but no one helps you. We are on our own,” one said.
One farmer said that they have received threats when trying to raise concerns over the issue.
“We have received threats yes, many times. As if we don’t have the right to protect our families, our livestock, our property, and our investments,” they lamented.
“In the future, I hope that there would be a solution that respects everyone, as well as ensuring that a safe distance is kept from properties and farms alike.”
As it stands, the Ministry for Cultural Heritage is responsible for such issues, given that fireworks fall within national and cultural heritage.
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