Animal Rights Group, which forms part of the Animal Rights Circus Coalition, would like to express its regret that the Maltese authorities have once more not given heed to international organisations. These have stated publicly that animal behaviourists worldwide have expressed their concern that animal circuses do nothing but exploit animals to their detriment as a means of providing cheap entertainment.

It is most disturbing that the Maltese authorities, who pride themselves for their Catholic values, chose to ignore the Church Environment Commission who issued a public statement categorically highlighting that the training of animals in circuses is indeed a form of cruelty. Not only has the Church been ignored regarding the animal circus issue, which was once more brought over by JS Productions, but that this animal circus is also being advertised as part of the festive season activities. Following various TV shows and newspaper articles, it is obvious that the majority of the Maltese population are against cruelty to animals.

Malta, as part of the EU, should follow those progressive countries, such as Finland and Switzerland, that have already taken a stand and banned animal circuses from their shores.

The most popular and famous circus in the world is the Cirque Du Soleil. This circus utilises no animals whatsoever in its diverse programmes, yet all who visit remain spellbound. The essence of this message can and indeed is achieved through man’s actual capabilities and not subjecting animals to perform unnatural and inhumane stunts.