Electric shock trainer banned from Blackpool Zoo
The controversial USA elephant trainer Scott Riddle, who used electric shock devices to train elephants at Blackpool Zoo, has now been banned from visiting the Zoo and handling the elephants. (For the background see the Elephant Protection Project.) In a change of heart the ruling Council, who had along with the zoo management previously sanctioned the methods used by Riddle, (an ex circus elephant trainer) have now taken positive steps to stop the abuse of the elephants by Riddle. This has been a direct result of people power, and pressure from Councillors. At a full council meeting at Blackpool Borough Council today (12th July 2000) the question regarding the treatment of the zoo's four elephants was raised once again. A question put to the council - by a councillor read 'In view of the many rumours circulating in the town that Blackpool zoo is set to re-engage the American ex circus trainer, Scott Riddle, later this year and bearing in mind his controversial and much criticized training methods involving the use of electric goads, can I now have an assurance that he will not be employed again by Blackpool zoo?' The answer was given and an assurance was received from the Ruling Labour Group that Scott Riddle would not be employed again by Blackpool Zoo. Also a motion on the future of Blackpool zoo was unanimously passed. The motion directed that a special sub-committee be set up to include the widest possible representation from the public. This would look at administration and the welfare of the animals at the zoo together with the zoos long-term future. This is a real victory - for CAPS, for the public who supported us and for Crumple, Katie, Indra and Marcella. Our campaign does not end here. We wish to see a complete ban on the use of electric goads. Please write to your Member of Parliament and ask for their support. |
