Bill S-15

Preamble - original

Whereas Parliament recognizes the evolution of public opinion on the captivity of certain animal species that are not domesticated;

Whereas Parliament is of the view that the science establishes that certain animals, particularly elephants and great apes, should not, because of the cruelty it represents, be kept in captivity; And

whereas Parliament recognizes that keeping these animals in captivity is justified in certain circumstances, including when it is in the best interests of their welfare or for the purpose of a scientific research or conservation program;

Now therefore, His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows:

Preamble - redraft

Whereas Parliament recognizes the evolution of public opinion on animals in human care of certain animal species that are not domesticated;

Whereas Parliament is of the view that the science establishes that certain animals in human care, particularly elephants and great apes, require very high standards of care that ensure their physical and psychological welfare and wellbeing, and that failure to maintain these high standards constitutes cruelty to these animals; And

whereas Parliament recognizes that keeping these animals in human care is justified in certain circumstances, including when it is in the best interests of their welfare or for the purpose of a scientific research or conservation program;

Now therefore, His Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and House of Commons of Canada, enacts as follows: