The European Commission has today initiated infringement proceedings against Malta concerning the “research derogation” related to the seven species of wild finches, the Ministry for Gozo and Planning said in a statement.

The Ministry claimed that “allowing the judgement delivered by the Court of Justice of the European Union in 2024 (Case C?23/23), “the Government introduced subsequent amendments to comply with that ruling.”

The Ministry added that, “these amendments were aimed at addressing the Court’s concerns, including providing justification for the absence of other satisfactory alternatives and strengthening enforcement measures.”

The Ministry statement noted that “despite these efforts, the Commission has decided to open fresh infringement proceedings as it questions whether Malta’s derogation, as applied in the new legislative framework, genuinely fulfils a research purpose.”

The Government said that it “takes note of this decision and remains committed to the ongoing constructive dialogue with the European Commission.

It also insisted that “the recent productive discussions between Minister Clint Camilleri and Commissioner Jessika Roswall underscore Malta’s dedication to sincere cooperation and finding mutually agreeable solutions.”

The Government now has two months to respond to the letter of formal notice.

The Government concluded that it will “continue to defend this research derogation, ensuring compliance with EU law while protecting the cultural identity and long-standing traditions of the Maltese and Gozitan communities.”

File photo: BirdLife Malta

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