PN Pledges Animal Protection Ministry & Sector Reform

Opposition and Partit Nazzjonalista Leader Alex Borg has announced that a future Nationalist Government would establish a dedicated Ministry for Animal Protection, as part of a wider reform of the sector.

Addressing the National Conference on Animals 2026 at the Salina Nature Reserve, held under the theme “From Welfare to Protection”, Borg said animals should be recognised as integral members of society whose wellbeing must be safeguarded. He argued that the current system is failing and requires urgent and comprehensive reform.

The conference, organised by Vuċi għall-Annimali, brought together stakeholders from across the sector, including Shadow Minister for Animal Protection Janice Abela Chetcuti and veterinary surgeon Andrew Agius. Discussions focused on the need to strengthen enforcement, improve structures and ensure higher standards of care.

Borg criticised the current state of the Animal Welfare Directorate, describing it as under resourced and lacking the necessary expertise and personnel. He stressed that the country needs a system where laws are properly enforced and where the Directorate functions as a true regulator and protector of animal welfare.

Among the key proposals outlined, Borg said the Directorate should no longer act as both operator and regulator. Instead, non governmental organisations, supported financially by the state, should take on operational roles, allowing the Directorate to focus on oversight and enforcement. He also called for greater government accountability and for the Office of the Commissioner for Animal Welfare to be made fully autonomous, with stronger investigative powers.

Highlighting past initiatives, Borg noted that a Nationalist Government had established the Animal Welfare Directorate and opened the San Franġisk Animal Hospital in Ta’ Qali, which has remained closed for over two years. He questioned the delay in reopening such a vital facility.

The PN Leader also pointed to recent cases of animal neglect and abuse as evidence of systemic shortcomings. He advocated for stronger enforcement and the introduction of a Positive List regulating which species can be kept as pets.

Borg concluded by reaffirming the PN’s commitment to animal welfare, stressing the importance of supporting both animals and the volunteers who work tirelessly within the sector.

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