RESPONSE TO “SLAUGHTER AT 2010 SOCCER SHOWPIECE”
The National Council of
SPCAs (N
SPCA) became aware of the proposal to hold animal-slaughtering rituals at the World Cup venues through the
Citizen newspaper with its front page headline “2010 Slaughter” and detailed article by Puleng Mashabane and Steven Tau on 23 October 2009.
The immediate response from the N
SPCA is to confirm working towards being included in talks with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) whose CEO Danny Jordaan is due back in South Africa next week.
The N
SPCA position is respectful and supportive towards cultural and traditional practices.
Welfare standards are paramount and these include issues such as transportation of animals, holding facilities, the manner of handling plus the method of slaughter.
The N
SPCA wishes to give input on this issue to all relevant parties including to the traditional leaders who made the announcement on this issue. The N
SPCA stresses that its role will not be to preach or dictate but to act in a welfare-liaison capacity.
Culture, tradition and welfare need not be in conflict. The N
SPCA appeals that its stance and approach are not seen as critical, dictatorial or challenging. The N
SPCA has a duty to act in the best interests of all animals and to promote their welfare.
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