The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights marked a weekend dedicated to animal welfare through two events: the Animal Honours Awards held on Friday 3 October, as well as an Animal Festival held today, Saturday 4 October, in Ta’ Qali. Both events continued to highlight the Government’s commitment to the protection and proper care of animals.
The Animal Honours Awards have once again recognised the tireless work and dedication of volunteers, professionals and organisations who contribute to the advancement of animal rights on a daily basis. During the ceremony, several individuals and animals were honoured, following nominations and a public vote held over the summer months. The awards were presented by Minister Anton Refalo, Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said, Permanent Secretary Sharlo Camilleri, Commissioner for Animal Welfare Alison Bezzina, and Dr Lydia Abela. This initiative continues to serve as a platform to honour those who dedicate their time and energy to the care and welfare of animals in Malta.
On Saturday, families gathered in Ta’ Qali for the third edition of the Animal Festival. Visitors enjoyed a programme that included workshops and talks on animal welfare, animal exhibitions, educational stands, live music, as well as a dedicated area for children. The event celebrated the contribution of all those working for the welfare of animals, while encouraging the public to embrace the principles of responsibility in the care of domestic animals.
Minister Anton Refalo said, “This week was an important opportunity to celebrate animal welfare together. Through these two events we have shown how much we as a country appreciate all those who dedicate their time to the protection and care of animals. I would like to salute all the volunteers, professionals and organisations who make a difference every day in the proper care of animals. Thank you also to the families and communities who took part in this celebration, and who thus continue to strengthen the message of respect and responsibility towards animals. As a Government we will continue to work to foster a society with greater respect for every animal.”
Parliamentary Secretary Alicia Bugeja Said praised the participation in Festa Antinal, particularly of the families who attended with their pets. She stressed the importance of these initiatives in raising awareness and also promoting animal adoption. “Together, the Animal Honours Awards and Festa Antinal help to create more awareness while showing appreciation to those working in the field, which further confirms the Government’s commitment to fostering a responsible and compassionate society towards animals,” concluded the Parliamentary Secretary.
Photo: DOI/MAFA
