Thursday 21 February 2008
CAMPAIGN TO BAN SNARES IN SCOTLAND CONTINUES
The campaign to ban snaring in Scotland continues, animal welfare organisations confirmed today.
Yesterday (20 February 2008) Scotland’s Environment Minister, Michael Russell MSP, announced that he did not intend to ban snaring although he proposed to regulate the practice more strictly through a package of technical measures. However animal welfare organisations do not believe such measures will stop the wide scale animal suffering or prevent the capture of non-target animals including protected species.
Advocates for Animals and the League Against Cruel Sports, the groups leading the Hanging is Still Legal in Scotland campaign, said that they wished to thank the thousands of supporters in Scotland and beyond who had helped to raise the profile of snaring in the Scottish Parliament and the media. Campaigners also thanked supportive MSPs from all parties.
Louise Robertson, Scotland Campaigner for the League Against Cruel Sports said:
“We continue to seek a ban on snaring in Scotland. That is the only way to eradicate the terrible suffering caused by these indiscriminate traps. Our petition, with over 5,000 signatures, will be heard by the Public Petitions Committee on 4 March.”
Ross Minett, Campaigns Director for Advocates for Animals, said:
“Only a full ban on snares will stop the widespread suffering of animals. The campaign to ban snares is supported by highly respected wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and conservation organisations. They are the people who tend the casualties and speak with first-hand experience about the appalling suffering that they have witnessed. We stand united and our campaign will continue until we achieve a total ban on all snares.”
Libby Anderson, Political Director of Advocates for Animals:
“We are hugely disappointed that the Minister decided to allow snaring to continue in Scotland despite widespread public and cross-party political support for a ban. We remain resolute that a ban is needed, and will work with any partners to improve animal welfare and monitor the prompt implementation of the proposed regulations.”
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Notes to Editors
For further information contact:
Advocates for Animals: Libby Anderson, Political Director – Tel: 0131 225 6039, Mob: 07967 839137.
League Against Cruel Sports: Louise Robertson, Scotland Campaigner - Tel: 01383 873461, Mob: 07980 232287.
A News Release issued yesterday following the Minister’s announcement can be found at: www.bansnares.com