YES! Dublin City Council BAN the use of wild animals in circuses

Using wild animals for entertainment in a circus has now been banned in Dublin.

The capital's City Council voted for the practice to be stopped last night, after the motion was first introduced by Sinn Fein councillor, Noeleen Reilly.

John Carmody, the spokesman for Animal Rights Action Network, said: “Thanks to the progressive views of Councillor Noeleen Reilly and those who voted yes at Dublin City Council to the motion, we are now steps nearer to a national ban on the use of animals in Irish circuses.

“With countries all over the world introducing such legislation, Ireland still has much to do to bring our outdated and old-fashioned views of using animals for entertainment into modern century thinking.

"But thankfully we feel that the tide is turning and we welcome the day Irish circuses can thrive with proper artists and acrobats, that way everyone can have fun.

"What is wrong with using animals in circuses? With the very best intentions in the world, a travelling circus is unable to adequately provide for the animals in their care.

"Considering their very nature, they pull up on whatever land is available and use makeshift, collapsible accommodation," John explained.

"Animals touring Irish circuses in 2016 include elephants, tigers, camels, horses, ponies, crocodiles, parrots and so many other animals prompting the need for national legislation to ban, outright, any circus using any animals."

Councillor Noeleen said: “I am delighted my motion was passed. This is a cruel outdated practice that holds no place in modern Ireland.

"Training and torturing animals to perform tricks for our entertainment in an unnatural environment is inhuman and degrading," she added.