Louis Walsh has asked government official to put a ban on all Irish circuses which use wild animals in their shows.
The X Factor judge, who has always had a passion for animal welfare, joined forces animal rights group, PETA, to urge the government to stop the use of wild animals in Irish circuses.
The 63 year old wrote to Minister for Agriculture, Food and The Marine, Michael Creed, to call for laws to be put in place banning the use of animals such as elephants and lions.
In the letter, Louis says, “My career has given me a deep appreciation for the determination and talents of human performers.
“They do what they do because they love to entertain, and the joy it gives them is apparent the minute they come on stage.
“That is not true for animals who are used in circuses. They don’t stand on their heads, ride bicycles or perform other demeaning, often painful tricks willingly.”
Louis then goes on to write about the harsh treatment he believes wild circus animals are forced to face if they do not obey their commanders.
He says that the animals will be “whipped, beaten with a steel-tipped bullhook or shocked with an electric prod.”
The judge wants the government to follow in the footsteps of other European countries who have put a ban in place.
“It’s vital that Ireland remain in step with other European countries by banning circuses that use wild animals immediately – otherwise, it’s like putting out a welcome mat for animal abusers,” he writes.
He’s doing everything in his power to see change.
