Sports And Hobby Groups Push Back Against PN’s Environmental Amendment Proposal
A proposal by the Nationalist Party (PN) to enshrine the right to a healthy environment in Malta’s Constitution has sparked concern among sporting and hobby organisations, which warn that the measure is too broadly drafted and could undermine longstanding traditions and activities.
The PN has tabled a Private Member’s Bill that would establish the right to a clean, sustainable environment as a fundamental right, equal in weight to constitutional protections for life and health.
The party argues that the amendment is a necessary response to Malta’s environmental challenges, including air pollution, waste, the loss of open spaces and insufficient investment in renewable energy.
Supporters say the Bill would provide citizens with a stronger legal framework to hold governments accountable for environmental harm.
While environmental NGOs have welcomed the proposal, groups representing hunters, trappers, motorsport enthusiasts, shooting sports, and other recreational activities have raised serious objections.
They contend that Article 45A is drafted in excessively broad terms and could be used to halt legitimate sporting, cultural and social activities.
The Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FKNK) described the Bill as “draconian”, warning that it could grant excessive power to individuals and groups opposed to traditional Maltese pastimes. It highlighted the potential for courts to impose urgent “interim measures”, which could suspend hunting or trapping seasons if deemed environmentally harmful.
The federation added that other cultural activities, such as fireworks, village feasts, off-roading and recreational fishing, could also be affected. The FKNK accused extremist groups of attempting to use constitutional reform to achieve goals they had failed to pursue through normal democratic channels.
The Malta Motorsport Federation (MMF) voiced similar concerns, stating that the amendment lacked clear parameters and could be subjectively interpreted. It warned that individuals might use the courts to halt motorsport activities under the guise of environmental protection, with interim measures potentially preventing drivers from practising in safe and controlled environments.
The Malta Shooting Sport Federation (MSSF) said the proposal could expose minority sports to frivolous or politically motivated legal challenges. It highlighted the risk that competitions and training sessions could be abruptly suspended, leaving athletes without practical recourse.
The federation stressed that while environmental protection is important, it must not come at the expense of democratic certainty or the rights of sportspeople.
Other groups, including the Federation of Arms Collectors and Target Shooters (FACTS), echoed these concerns, calling for clear safeguards to protect both the environment and cultural and sporting traditions.
The Malta Football Association (MFA) also raised objections, warning that granting unlimited discretion could lead to abuse and harm sports activities. It urged lawmakers to ensure that no measures are applied unfairly or disproportionately.
Marsaxlokk FC highlighted that the proposal could affect grassroots football activities, including evening training sessions for children, citing potential impacts from light and noise. The club called for broad consultation to avoid unintended consequences.
The Labour Party has criticised the PN’s proposal as containing serious shortcomings and being rushed through Parliament without adequate consultation, arguing that voluntary organisations and civil society had to point out flaws in the draft, undermining the Opposition’s credibility.
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