City should impose tighter controls on circuses: Thomas

City should impose tighter controls on circuses: Thomas JIM BROWN The Journal PioneerSummerside — Coun. Cory Thomas says he opposes the use of exotic animals in circuses.But he knows that could be a tough sell, especially after 3,000 people recently attended two performances by the Quebec-based Fabuleux Cirque Estival at the Summerside Wellness Centre.Thomas, however, is pushing for the city to adopt tougher regulations for traveling circuses visiting Summerside to ensure animals are treated humanely.“We can be leaders,” he said.Thomas will bring his resolution to the August meeting of the police committee for discussion.“I know I’ll probably never get a total ban on exotic animal circuses — but what we can do as a council is look at having tougher (laws).”Thomas stressed his comments “didn’t have anything to do with any particular circus” and only reflected his views on all circuses that use animals.Thomas didn’t attend Cirque Estival, though he did speak to a pair of protesters from Halifax picketing outside the Wellness Centre.Thomas was attending the Relay for Life fundraiser next door at the Summerside Raceway.He went on to say he would like to see regulations that include mandatory visits by a provincial veterinarian to ensure circus animals are well treated.He also wants council to ensure animals have adequate space in their cages.One practice he wishes could be stopped is allowing people, including children, to ride atop elephants and other animals. “It’s too dangerous, something could happen.”And that isn’t all.“The use of whips and hooks and things like that need to be looked at as well,” said the rookie councillor.Thomas believes new rules should also include a ban on the practice of dressing animals in clothing.

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