Veggy Malta and Animal Liberation Malta have teamed up to issue some new proposals ahead of the March general election.
With a slogan highlighting how ‘The Voiceless are Forgotten’, Veggy Malta co-ordinator and vegan activist Darryl Grima stated that;
‘we have come up with a list of ethical recommendations for political parties based on the four ethical pillars of veganism: social justice, environmental justice and animal justice and human health. By achieving all we can ensure a better society for all; people, animals and all biodiversity.’
Animal Liberation Malta activist Haroon Ali also added that ‘as vegans and also animal right activists our recommendations aim to ensure that animals and their needs are put on the political agenda.’
The proposals include a meat and dairy tax which aims to help cover the real health and environmental costs from using animals as food.
‘Just as cigarettes have an excise duty on them so should meat and dairy. Additionally the same type of health warning that is found on cigarettes should be placed on red and processed meat and dairy. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has designated red and processed meat as a carcinogen. Additionally we all know that and dairy is know to be a key trigger to cholesterol.’
Other proposals include having all plant based milks be at zero VAT as well as plant based options being offered in state owned public spaces. These include hospitals, prisons, schools and defence forces.
The proposals also include pledges concerning agriculture as well as education. The organisations are proposing having all health professionals being given training on nutrition and the benefits of a plant based diet.
Other proposals include
- No new zoo licenses being issued
- Phasing out the old and antiquated practice of horse carriages within a 5 year period
- A stop to new animal factory farms
- Supporting farmers in transitioning out of animal agritultcure into new sustainable plant based agriculture
- Malta joining a number of EU countries in banning fur
- Designating 50% of territorial waters as fishing free
- Public awareness campaigns regarding the importance of increasing vegetables and fruits in one’s diet
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