‘I have full confidence in Clint Camilleri’ — Abela defends minister on hunting track record

Prime Minister Robert Abela has strongly defended his decision to entrust the hunting portfolio to Gozo Minister Clint Camilleri once again, insisting he has “full confidence” in the minister despite renewed scrutiny over his record and political responsibility on the sector. Speaking to The Malta Independent , Abela was asked why Camilleri maintained the responsibility over the portfolio in light of criticism from environmental groups and political opponents. In response, he stood firmly by his minister and framed the government’s position as one of defending Malta’s cultural traditions, including hunting and trapping. “I have full confidence in Clint Camilleri; he was one of the best ministers I had in Cabinet in the last legislature and I am convinced that that will remain so,” Abela said. His remarks come as hunting and trapping continue to be among Malta’s most divisive policy areas, often placing the government at the centre of disputes between conservation advocates and traditional hunting communities. Abela said that his administration has a clear responsibility to protect what he described as “traditional hobbies” and cultural practices that form part of Malta’s identity. He said governments must be willing to respect differing personal views while still safeguarding long-established customs. “We are always in favour of traditions, regardless of personal opinion and regardless of whether a hobby is liked or not,” he said. “But I very strongly believe that it is my and the government’s duty to protect traditional hobbies.” The Prime Minister also pointed to previous political debates in Malta over attempts to restrict or amend laws affecting hunting, trapping, and cultural festivities. He suggested that past proposals, including constitutional amendments debated in Parliament, had posed risks to traditions such as village feasts and regulated hunting practices. Abela said that the Labour Party had consistently taken a position in favour of preserving these practices, including voting against what he described as “dangerous” legislative proposals that could have altered the constitutional or legal status of traditional activities. He added that the government has repeatedly sought to strike a balance between acknowledging environmental and regulatory concerns while still ensuring that traditional practices are not removed or severely restricted. “We have always found ways, while recognising and respecting others, to safeguard traditional hobbies,” he said.