Law to toughen penalties for animal cruelty and wildlife trafficking
Animal protection law
This proposed law aims to better protect elephants and great apes (like chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans) that are kept in captivity. It changes the Criminal Code to make it against the law to own, breed, or use these animals for entertainment, like in circuses or shows. People who already own these animals when the law comes into effect will be allowed to keep them, but they can't breed them. There are some exceptions, such as for scientific research or conservation programs approved by the government. The proposed law also changes the rules about importing and exporting these animals. It will be illegal to bring them into or send them out of Canada, unless it's for scientific or conservation reasons, and the government gives permission. Anyone who owns an elephant or great ape will have to tell the government about it. If someone breaks these rules, they could face a fine of up to $200,000. This matters because it could significantly improve the lives of elephants and great apes in captivity. It aims to stop them from being exploited for entertainment and to ensure that any kept in captivity are there for their own well-being or for important scientific or conservation work.
Where this proposed law falls on the policy spectrums that Canadians care about
Changes to the Criminal Code suggest a shift in criminal justice approaches. Without specific details, it's difficult to pinpoint the exact direction, but changes to the Criminal Code often involve adjustments to sentencing, definitions of crimes, or procedures, which can lean towards either 'tough on crime' or 'restorative justice.' Given that the bill also addresses wildlife trade, it is likely to include increased penalties for those crimes, which would move it towards 'tough on crime', but it is likely balanced with other measures.
Changes to the law about trading wild animals and plants suggest a move towards environmental protection and conservation. This indicates a shift towards stronger environmental regulations and enforcement, aligning with the 'Emergency climate measures' end of the spectrum, although the magnitude of the impact is likely moderate.
This proposed law makes it illegal to own or breed elephants and great apes in captivity, except in specific cases like for science or conservation. It also bans using these animals for entertainment, which is a positive step for animal welfare, but it relies heavily on permits, which could create loopholes.
Things to Watch For
- The rules for getting permits for research or conservation are not clear.
- It's not clear how the government will check if people are following the rules.
- Zoos and other places that currently have these animals will need to figure out what to do with them.
- The law does not address the welfare standards for elephants and great apes that are currently held with permits.
- The penalties for breaking the law might not be enough to stop people from doing it anyway.
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How likely this proposed law is to be approved
Since the government proposed it and it has already passed through the Senate, there's a good chance it will pass. However, it still needs to go through the House of Commons, which introduces some uncertainty.
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