France’s environment minister has announced a ban on the use of wild animals in the coming years and keeping dolphins and killer whales in captivity in the circus
PARIS – France’s environment minister has announced a gradual ban on using wild animals to keep dolphins and killer whales in captivity in marine parks and raising mink on fur farms.
France’s Minister of Ecological Infection Barbara Pompili said at a news conference on Tuesday that bears, tigers, lions, elephants and other wild animals would not be allowed in the circus to travel in the coming years.
Also, starting immediately, France’s three marine parks will neither be able to bring nor breed dolphins and killer whales, she says.
“It is time to open a new era in our relationships with these (wild) animals,” she said, arguing that animal welfare is a priority.
Pompeili said the measures would also help end farming, where animals are reared for their fur within the next five years.
The ban does not apply to wild animals in other permanent shows and zoos.
Pompeili did not set an exact date for the ban at the traveling circus, saying the process “should begin as soon as possible.” She promised that the solution would be found “on a case-by-case basis” for each animal.
The French government will implement an 8 million euro ($ 9.2 million) package to help people working in circuses and maritime parks find other jobs.
“That infection will spread over many years, because it will change the lives of many people,” she said.
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