NOAH'S ARK REPRESENTATIVES WERE RECEIVED IN A MEETING WITH THE MINISTER OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND RURAL AFFAIRS ON THURSDAY THE 16th of SEPTEMBER 2004.

THE PERSONAL INTERVENTION OF THE HON. GEORGE PULLICINO IN ARRANGING THIS MEETING WAS VERY MUCH APPRECIATED.

THE PURPOSE OF THE MEETING WAS PRIMARILY TO REQUEST GOVERNMENT ASSITANCE IN PROVIDING A LOCATION FOR SETTING UP A SANCTUARY IN THE MELLIEHA AREA.

THE HONOURABLE MINISTER SHOWED A VERY POSITIVE ATTITUDE TO PROPOSALS BY NOAH'S ARK, ESPECIALLY REGARDING THE TRAINING POLICE AND COUNCIL WARDENS ("de facto" Animal Welfare Officers) IN ENFORCEMENT OF ANIMAL WELFARE.

Other proposals regarding programmes to promote public awareness of the animal welfare act, the neutering of strays and the identification of animals are to be referred to the Council of Animal Welfare. Noah's Ark suggested that the Honourable Minister appoint volunteers in animal rescue "Auxilliary Animal Welfare Officers". It is hoped that the Council will improve its rate of delivery.