Campaigners call for animals to be banned from circuses is succeeding

Scotland is being urged to become the next nation to outlaw circuses after Ireland voted through a ban.

Last week Ireland’s minister Michael Creed signed legislation banning the use of wild animals in any circus coming to the country.

The legislation will come into effect on January 1, 2018 was welcomed by Ireland's Parliament.

Creed said: “The use of wild animals for entertainment purposes in circuses can no longer be permitted. This is the general view of the public at large and a position I am happy to endorse. This is a progressive move, reflective of our commitment to animal welfare.

“I am of course allowing a modest lead in period to allow for alternative arrangements to be made for the animals in question.”

He also stated: “Coming in line with modern welfare standards will mean that greater numbers of the public will be more comfortable with going to the circus.”

It follows campaigning by Animal Defenders International (ADI) which is looking for a worldwide ban on circuses.

In Scotland, the government has introduced a bill to ban wild animals in circuses which has progressed to Stage 2 for further scrutiny.

ADI and local supporters are urging Members of the Scottish Parliament to back the legislation.

ADI president Jan Creamer said: “Having campaigned to stop circus suffering in Ireland for more than a decade with our partners ARAN, we are delighted wild animals in circuses will be banned from 2018.

“Circuses cannot meet the needs of animals in small, mobile accommodation and Animal Defenders International has repeatedly documented suffering and abuse. We urge the UK and the USA to follow Ireland’s lead and consign these outdated acts to the past where they belong.”