Dublin Mayor Takes Live Animals Out of Christmas Crib Over Animal Welfare Concerns

A Christmas crib featuring live farm animals will return to Dublin city center this year despite controversy and concerns over animal welfare. The scene has been set outside the Mansion House each December since 1995, but recently, the mayor decided that live animals should not be featured in the display. In response to this announcement, a new second crib will be put up in St Stephen’s Green Park that features a live donkey, two sheep, and a goat.

Source: RTÉ News/Youtube

The crib was reportedly announced by the government’s Office of Public Works (OPW) department after discussions with the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA).

The OPW said that the attraction is a “firm Christmas tradition and beloved institution for many, young and old”. They insisted that the crib will be installed in line with guidelines from the Farm Animal Welfare Advisory Council.

The current Lord Mayor Caroline Conroy has faced immense backlash since she announced that there would not be any live animals featured in the crib, with some even calling her a Grinch or saying that it is a “Scrooge-like decision”.

She has stood by her decision and explained that while she doesn’t doubt the animals are looked after, this is not the best place for them.

“While the farm animals in the crib have undoubtedly been well looked after, I don’t believe a busy and noisy city centre is the right location for them,” she said.

“Circuses have moved away from using animals in this way and I think Dublin City Council should do also.”

The Mayor is absolutely right, this is not the best environment for these animals and they should not be exploited for the Christmas show. There are so many other ways to be entertained without having to force animals into the equation.

We can help these animals by not supporting the businesses that exploit them. Refrain from buying tickets to circuses, zoos, or movies that use wild animals. This will leave these companies with less financial Support to keep their cruel practices going.

Check out these 5 Humane Ways to Be ‘Entertained’ by Animals Without Exploiting Them!

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