Conservationist Lucas Micallef Calls For Dialogue Following Fireworks Factory Explosion

Hunter and conservationist Lucas Micallef has urged the public to avoid rushing to judgement following last Monday’s explosion at a fireworks factory in Malta, warning against calls for a blanket ban on fireworks before investigations are concluded.

In a statement issued days after the incident, Micallef said he had “observed, listened to and read many comments” regarding the explosion, but stressed that determining its cause should be left to the relevant authorities and experts.

While expressing sympathy for those affected, particularly the animals that lost their lives, Micallef said: “Naturalment jiddispjaċini għall-annimali li mietu f’dan l-inċident.” He added that he personally knows some of those impacted and understands the pain they are currently experiencing.

However, he cautioned against allowing emotions to overshadow reason, describing calls to prohibit fireworks entirely as a matter of “serious concern”. Micallef argued that, if negligence is found, those responsible should be held accountable, but warned against condemning an entire community of enthusiasts and volunteers who have helped preserve a longstanding Maltese tradition.

He concluded by calling for greater dialogue and a focus on improving safety measures, stating that progress is built on “reason, respect, facts, and dialogue” rather than “extremism."

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