Government Chooses “Fun and Freedoms” Over Animal Welfare
Comments made by Finance Minister, Nicola Willis, on RNZ this morning confirm the Luxon-led Government has little interest in animal welfare or the views of New Zealanders.
Asked if she would support a ban or restrictions to fireworks, Willis said although fireworks “terrorise animals” she doesn't want the government to take away “our fun and freedoms.”
“I’d be sad to lose that part of New Zealand culture,” Willis said, reminiscing of double happies and skyrockets.
Petitions calling for a ban on the private sale and use of fireworks have collected more than 90 thousand signatures, reflecting a desire among New Zealanders to put an end to the distress, disruption, gruesome injuries and death fireworks cause animals.
But National MP, Greg Fleming, who was presented with a petition, told RNZ that "there's no appetite whatsoever from the Government's agenda for looking at this".
"It's well outside of our batting lane with everything focused on economic growth and controlling government expenditure, et cetera," Fleming said.
Greyhound Racing New Zealand (GRNZ) criticises the Government for being hollow in its words and actions on both animal welfare and economic growth, saying the bill to end greyhound racing in NZ will weaken animal protections, wipe 159 million dollars off the economy and put more than a thousand people out of work.
“There couldn't be a worse time to advance a policy that puts people out of jobs,” says GRNZ CEO Edward Rennell.
“This is not a government that cares for animals or its people.”
In a letter to the Finance Minister Mr Rennell implored Nicola Willis to consider deferring policies that cost jobs until the economy is stronger, employment prospects improve, and business confidence has been restored.
That letter remains unanswered.
For inquiries and interviews please contact GRNZ CEO Edward Rennell:
