Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Welfare Alicia Bugeja Said, has said that the incident that occurred during the Santa Marija horse races in Victoria, Gozo, on Saturday where a horse fell, is being investigated by Animal Welfare Malta.

Writing on social media, she said ”I will ensure that all aspects of the incident are examined and that all applicable rules and procedures were followed.”

”Unfortunately, there were also injuries in this incident, and I would like to wish a speedy recovery to all those affected. I thank all those who provided the necessary assistance,” added Alicia Bugeja Said,

She concluded by saying that ”animal welfare remains a priority, and I will continue to follow this case closely to ensure the highest possible standards and prevent similar incidents.”

Saturday evening’s incident had been widely condemned after a video circulated online showing a horse slipping on the asphalted street when it was being pulled up at the end of the race, the horse went down and collided with the straw bales blocking the end of the road.

The Parliamentary Secretary’s statement was welcomed by the Animal Rights Group Chairperson Myriam Kirmond, who said, ”we sincerely hope that once again this time not only will there be an investigation but that these races, if allowed at all should be done on the Gozo racetrack.”

Photo: Facebook

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