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Tuesday, November 07, 2006
The Canadian Federation of Humane Societies (CFHS) wishes to clarify its role on the National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC), as mentioned in this article. The CFHS is the only animal welfare organization on NFACC and acts as the animal welfare conscience among the various industry groups, scientists and government representatives.
Historically, the CFHS has participated in the development of Codes of Practice for the raising of farm animals, as well as in the development of guidelines for research animals. The Federation is often criticized from both sides: from animal rights organizations that think the CFHS is too cozy with industry groups; and from animal industry groups like farmers, hunters and trappers that think the CFHS is an animal rights organization.
Some groups and individuals interpret the CFHS’ participation in these guidelines and standards as an endorsement of the practices used in various animal industries. This is not true. The CFHS has grave concerns about certain intensive livestock husbandry systems, such as battery cages for laying hens and gestation stalls for sows. However, we feel it is crucial for us to be at the table working for incremental improvement, understanding the economic and practical limitations facing producers.
The CFHS takes this challenging role seriously on behalf of its member humane societies and SPCAs across Canada in working for the well-being of animals.
Shelagh MacDonald
Program Director
Read the original article, Activists vs. factory farms, published in the Toronto Star, Nov. 6, 2006.
