Unfortunately Minister Gerda Verburg is a bad example and a bad leader she has no heart for circus (and other) animals maybe because she is a farmers daughter and perhaps she was desensitized while she was raised on a farm where animal misuse/abuse was normal. Today’s use, misuse and abuse on farms is not normal we need to bring that norm down, we need to focus on compassion we should not let circuses, zoos, dolphinariums and farms desensitize our youngsters they will grow up thinking the abuse is a normal part of life, IT IS NOT ! Animals just like us humans have the right to be, the right to habitat and the right to fulfill its role in the great community of existence. If we humans call ourselves superior then why is the world such a mess?

By Mercedes De Windt | July 28, 2009 12:51 PM

We can not blame Gerda Verburg, she doesn't know any better. She has always been surrounded by animals suffering. The Wageningen University rapport was clear, but she does not understand. Conclusion..., WE NEED AN OTHER MINISTER!

By Hester | July 28, 2009 1:27 PM

Sensible decision and one that reflects reality not the animal rights vociferous narrow moral viewpoint - regulations yes bans no - recent scientific studies in the USA and UK support this view

By David | July 28, 2009 3:16 PM

Good decision. I like the fact that we are not too quick to go to the extreme on either side and this is a level headed decision. Clearly abuse is bad but also clearly animals are not like humans and do not carry the same rights. Humans are superior to animals that is why there are those that have the ability to oppose abuse whereas very few Lions would consider it wrong to rip an Impala to shreds. We need to be realistic- We are Not the same as animals

By bet | July 29, 2009 1:27 AM

Let us also consider that circuses are not needed or necessary to our lives. They are merely entertainment. A balanced opinion might say that the more something is needed in life, the more we should tolerate infringement on an animal's life, for example, animals for food, animal testing of medicines, etc. But circuses do not provide any value for society except some minimal fun. If they were banned tomorrow, our lives would go on just as before. Therefore a ban is reasonable.

By Matt | July 29, 2009 1:55 PM

Clearly 'Human Rights' are taking over 'Animals Rights', afterall they say the animals can't talk !. Gerda Verburg, should travel with the 'Circus' then her opinion might change, even more so if she was to take part in the cleaning, feeding & performing !. It is so much nicer to visit a 'Zoo' seeing the animals at least 'Free-er' though an artifical enviroment but better cared for & a Vet is there 24hr's - there is no place in this 21st Century anymore for the Circus - I believe they should be banned.

By Elizabeth | July 31, 2009 8:39 AM