The hunters have officially launched their 'Yes' to spring hunting bid in what has all the hallmarks of a slick election campaign. 

Three campaign spokespersons addressed hunters from an elevated platform, flanked by a number of youngsters in colourful t-shirts. 

Glossy brochures were handed out to all those present, featuring a smiling young family in the countryside. 

Speaking at the launch, Silvana Zarb Darmanin said it is with satisfaction that hunters note that both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition were to vote in favour of the spring hunting derogation.

Hunters have private property which should be respected and protected. No one can expel hunters from what is theirs, she said. 

There are other MPs and even President emeritus Eddie Fenech Adami who have said they will vote in favour of the derogation, Mr Zarb Darmanin said. 

The referendum has been instigated by a small group of people with an agenda to abolish hunting and who want to do away with the rights of the hunters just because they do not love hunting, she said. 

She deplored the "abusive actions of a few people, influenced by foreigners." 

"We can never accept have foreigners telling us what to do in our place of birth. Foreigners have to respect our culture and beliefs, as the Maltese do when we visit their countries."

She claimed that "24-hour" hunting is allowed in England, where the majority of these "foreigners" come from. 

Lawyer Kathleen Grima said the 'No' campaign wants to abolish a right that has even been sanctioned by the EU.

Malta has acquired a right which will potentially be done away with by the Maltese if people vote no, she said. 

Other minority rights stand to be done away with if the 'No' vote wins, Dr Grima warned. 

"The 'No' campaign said this is just the beginning, how can the Maltese ignore this? No Maltese should ever be exposed to what we are being exposed to," Dr Grima said. 

The spring hunting season is only made up of 20 half days, she said. 

"Other minorities have already given their support to the campaign. We will fight this threat not just for hunters but for every other minority. No one should try do away with a legal hobby... 

"The easiest route would have been abstention in the 11 April referendum, yet we are encouraging everyone to come out and vote during the local council elections," Dr Grima said. 

Another campaign spokesperson, Daniel Xriha, said that every group in Malta forms part of a minority. 

"Some people are preparing to target other minorities simply because they do not agree with them," he said.