4 December 2001

Libby the piglet coming to parliament

A new poll released today by the SPCA shows 86 per cent of New Zealanders think the use of sow crates in pig farming is unacceptable and 87 per cent of people want them banned by 2006 at the latest.

The poll was conducted by Colmar Brunton for the SPCA and has a margin of error of plus or minus four per cent.

Green Animal Welfare Spokesperson Sue Kedgley said the poll shows the public are totally behind the Green Party and SPCA campaign to have sow crates phased out.

"The use of sow crates is one of the cruelest practices in New Zealand farming and New Zealanders are united in their wish to see these crates banned," said Ms Kedgley.

"Agriculture Minister Jim Sutton has no choice other than to phase out the sow crate completely at the end of the six week review of the Animal Welfare Code for pigs - which ends mid-December - because in the draft Code Mr Sutton says 'I am confident that [the code will] reflect the views and values held by New Zealanders'."

This Thursday a delegation of junior SPCA members aged between five and 12 will come to parliament to deliver 120 piggy banks - one for every MP - to convey the message 'We are banking on your support'.

The delegation will also be bringing Libby, a hand-reared piglet who's mother was killed by hunters.

Ms Kedgley will meet the delegation and accept the piggy banks.

"Anybody with any doubts at all about the cruelty of sow crates should come to parliament and meet Libby. Pigs are highly sensitive, intelligent creatures and to confine them in cages where they cannot even turn around is a form of animal abuse.

"The public of New Zealand know how they feel and what they want. Now it is time for all MPs to represent them and ensure these crates are banned."

Sue will meet the delegation, and Libby the piglet, this Thursday on the steps of parliament at 3.30pm.

ENDS

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