Document type: article published on theEurope1 website
Author: Julien Moreau
Preview: The elected representatives of the Normandy region decided at a Standing Committee meeting that shows using wild animals would no longer be subsidized, as of this year. Normandy is the first region in France to take this decision. Taking action now. Although the law on animal abuse will not come into force for another four years, in 2028, the Normandy region has decided to stop subsidizing shows that use wild animals. The region is well known for its many medieval festivals held throughout the year, where wild animals are often the main attraction. Normandy's elected representatives took the decision at a meeting of the Standing Committee. "I'd say it's a decision in line with the times. What we've found is that the showing of wild animals can be shocking for some members of the public and, above all, other things are possible," said Nathalie Porte, Vice-President of the Normandy region, who holds the tourism and attractiveness portfolio. "If you dream of seeing a bird of prey fly off, there are other ways, without animals having to suffer. For example, at the Dame Blanche wildlife rescue center in Calvados, once they treat the animals, they set them free and you can watch them take to the skies," she added, in an interview on France 3 Normandie. "Being opposed to displays that feature wild animals is a recognition of their feelings and their needs. We are delighted by this show of commitment from the Normandy region", says Amandine Sanvisens, founder of the Paris Animaux Zoopolis association. According to the association's figures, 22% of Normandy's medieval festivals featured falconry shows in 2023 (Falaise, Harcourt, Pontorson, Cerisy-La-Forêt, Thietreville and Rouen). Passed in 2021, the Law on animal abuse has allowed a seven-year grace period before the ban on non-domestic animals in "itinerant establishments" is imposed.
From the Europe 1 website
