PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR AGRICULTURE, FISHERIES AND ANIMAL RIGHTS: Clarification regarding the recent event at Circus Orfei

The Ministry for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights, through the Animal Welfare Directorate, wishes to clarify its position regarding the event linked to Circus Orfei.

Following public complaints and the Directorate's subsequent on-site verification, it was determined that the event being held had incorporated performances that constituted an animal circus act, in direct breach of the law. Consequently, the permit issued for the event for equestrian dressage and equine arts show was revoked with immediate effect on Saturday, 11th October. Enforcement actions are underway.

An authorisation was granted to the organisers, who had never indicated any association with Circus Orfei, specifically for a functional equestrian dressage and equine arts show, which is a permitted activity under the law. This authorisation fell within the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act, which allows such performances as long as they do not compromise animal welfare and are approved by the Directorate under appropriate conditions.

However, no approval was ever granted to Circus Orfei for an animal circus, as such events are explicitly illegal under the Animal Welfare Act, which prohibits the use of animals for performances, exhibitions, shows, or for their training in circuses.

The Ministry, through the Animal Welfare Directorate, remains steadfast in its duty to enforce animal welfare legislation and to ensure that all events involving animals are conducted responsibly and in full compliance with legal and ethical standards. The Ministry thanks the public for its vigilance and cooperation in safeguarding animal welfare.