A debate unfolded in Parliament on Tuesday evening as the Opposition put forward Motion No. 406, calling for amendments to the Protection of Agricultural Land Regulations (Legal Notice 150 of 2025).
The motion, led by Shadow Minister for Transport, Agriculture and Fisheries Toni Bezzina, argues that the current legislation grants excessive powers to the government and the Malta Agricultural Resources Agency, raising concerns over property rights and traditional rural activities.
Bezzina criticised the regulations as “arbitrary” and argued that the Opposition was excluded from meaningful consultation. He warned that the law risks restricting traditional Maltese rural hobbies, including hunting, trapping, and recreational use, and could penalise landowners maintaining small plots or resting fields.
Bezzina also highlighted the limited availability of agricultural land in Malta, noting that only 5% of farmland belongs to the government, 28% is privately owned, and 23% is leased by public entities. He stressed that agricultural land is vital for national food security, rural employment, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Shadow Minister for National Heritage and Hobbies Charles Azzopardi and MPs Joe Giglio and Darren Carabott reinforced these concerns, emphasising that the legislation could disproportionately affect traditional activities while giving the state undue control over private property. Former minister Michael Falzon highlighted the cultural importance of rural hobbies, warning that restrictions could undermine centuries-old practices.
Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo defended the regulations, stating that the government’s primary aim is to protect agricultural land while respecting traditional rural activities. He rejected claims of scaremongering, explaining that exemptions are available for minimal agricultural activity and traditional hobbies, ensuring a balance between private use and sustainable land management. Refalo clarified that the law does not prevent traditional activities as long as they do not damage agricultural land or interfere with active farming.
Parliamentary Secretary for Fisheries, Aquaculture and Animal Welfare Alicia Bugeja Said added that the legislation aims to secure farmland for future generations while maintaining transparency and proportionality. She stressed that the government consulted widely during the preparation of the 2022 White Paper and that most agricultural land is already registered, benefitting from EU and national support schemes.
The Opposition’s proposed amendments focus on limiting the state’s ability to seize unregistered land, protecting traditional hobbies, and curbing excessive powers granted to the Malta Agricultural Resources Agency. The Labour Party, however, maintains that the legislation is proportionate, fair, and consistent with European Union agricultural and land management policies.
A parliamentary vote on the motion is scheduled for 16 December.