Whilst firmly sitting on the fence rather than responding to the calls for action, the recently appointed secretary general of the socialist PSOE political group, Pedro Sánchez, has stated that despite his group “respecting” the culture of bullfighting, he himself would not attend such an event.
The comment came in response to the build up to Tuesday´s Toro de la Vega, in Valladolid. With Medieval origins, the annual event results in waves of protests from animal rights groups, on account of the brutal treatment of the bulls.
This year, 45,000 people took to the streets of Madrid in protest of the event, whilst the PACMA animal rights group is petitioning the European Union to have the event banned. IN the first month, 70,000 people signed their official petition which has been presented to the President of Petitions last week.
According to Silvia Barquero, President of PACMA, “The vast majority of Spanish society rejects the implied animal abuse in this controversial conclusion, we as European citizens we represent, not part of our traditions, but we are deeply ashamed”.
Organizers point out that Article 13 of the Lisbon Treaty recognizes animals as sentient beings and urges member of the European Union to implement policies that promote their welfare states.
The Toro de la Vega results in hundreds of people both on foot and on horseback, chasing bulls with spears with the intention of the brutal killing of the animals upon capture.
Pedro Sanchez this week said that “The Socialist Party has a clear position, respect the culture of bullfighting in Spain, but from a personal point of view, while respecting it, I will not see a bullfight”.
In reference to the Toro de la Vega, whilst not offering any intention to try to encourage or even discuss a change in policy, he explained that personally, “I reject it, I don´t like it”, adding, “In the twenty-first century such festivals should not take place”.
PACMA have expressed their disappointment in the uncompromising attitude of a leader who promises change, but have also vowed to continue their fight to have such events outlawed.
Filed under: http://www.theleader.info/article/44899/
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