The Commissioner for Animal Welfare Dennis Montebello has once again reiterated his call to end horse racing on the eve of the traditional street horse races in Victoria.

A suspected contradiction was pointed out by social media users with regards to the races, as earlier this year amendments to the horse-drawn carriage legislation had tightened the parameters around which they can operate.

The complaints from animal activists had not fallen on deaf ears as the starting time for races during Mnarja had been changed to a later time when the sun is not at its strongest. Montebello had, however, expressed other reservations about such races, noting that these take place on tarmac and asphalt roads that are not suitable for horses to run on.

Having also insisted that he is not against traditions, he had appealed for a balance to be found between all the parties concerned.

Local animal rights activist Moira Delia was contacted by this newsroom after she had taken to social media to query whether the law permitted these races to take place considering the recent change in the law.

“What is the position of the Ministers, the Minister of Gozo and the Animal Welfare Commissioner?” she asked.

Upon further investigation, it was noted that these races need only be authorised by Transport Malta who also has the power to implement any conditions that may be needed on the day.

Activists have suggested that a number of veterinarians and officers from Animal Welfare be present throughout the racing event to ensure that the animals are treated properly and that they take action if anything problematic had to arise.

In fact, the Directorate for Veterinary Services is also entitled to intervene and stop any race that is deemed to be unsafe.