Wild animals banned from Irish circuses

[Catherine]

In Jan 1, 2018 a new law comes into effect that bans wild animals from circuses. It is a recognition of the fact that circuses cannot properly provide for these animals.  Existing circus animals will be retired to suitable places. This brings circuses in line with  current thinking about animals. 

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-41944036

We no longer want to see tigers and elephants perform tricks. We know the animals are mistreated to make them perform those tricks. Circuses can go in other directions and appeal to the public. Leaving the animals out of the circus will increase their appeal to people who have grown uncomfortable with animal abuse. 

Gradually circus animals are being banned everywhere. Someday there will be no animals in circuses. It has taken time and the public has had to express its views, but the ban is spreading.

[LPC]

That is really good news. If only all of the UK would follow suit and not just Scotland.

[Catherine]

I think it will spread with time. Circuses travel and once animals become unpopular and even banned they will come up with animal free performances. It will be easier to have all their shows animal free and able to go from country to country. 

I think people are not happy watching circus animals any more. We know too much about how the animals are treated. Circuses will have to distance themselves from that if they want to survive. We have lots of other forms of entertainment that are fun and don't use/abuse animals.