Breaking The Chains: Canadian Senate Passes Bill To Ban Captivity Of Elephants & Great Apes

The protection of elephants and great apes in Canada has taken a significant step forward as Bill S-15 moves closer to becoming law following its adoption in the Senate. This groundbreaking legislation aims to ban the new captivity of these magnificent creatures—prohibiting breeding—unless licensed for purposes that benefit the animals’ welfare, conservation, or scientific research. This prohibition does not apply to animals already in captivity, who will be grandfathered in under the current regulations.

The bill also bans the use of elephants and great apes in entertainment performances. This reflects a growing recognition of their complex emotional and social lives, which deserve respect and protection.

Senator Marty Klyne, the sponsor of the bill, highlighted the profound nature of these animals in a speech, stating: “Elephants and great apes are self-aware, highly intelligent, emotional, and social. They love their friends and families, mourn their dead, and use tools. Great apes can even learn and communicate in American Sign Language, sometimes teaching the skill to one another. In many ways, these remarkable creatures are very much like us.”

Senator Klyne further emphasized, “For elephants and great apes in captivity, Bill S-15 provides the enhanced legal protection they deserve, according to their scientifically established characteristics and needs.”

This legislation signals a pivotal shift in how society perceives and treats these sentient beings, aligning with the broader global movement towards humane treatment and conservation of wildlife.

Senator Klyne continues, stating “I trust this government bill can build on the Senate’s recent successes to protect animal welfare. These include Canada’s whale and dolphin bill captivity laws, adopted through the leadership of Senators Moore, Sinclair and Harder; Senator MacDonald’s shark fin ban; Senator Boyer’s efforts to prevent animal abuse and dog fighting; Senator Stewart-Olsen’s work to ban animal testing for cosmetics; and Senators Galvez and Dalphond’s amendments to Bill S-5 to phase out animal toxicity testing, which became law in June.”

The progress of Bill S-15 is a testament to the growing awareness and commitment to animal welfare, echoing a broader societal responsibility to ensure the ethical treatment of all living beings. As the bill awaits further consideration, it stands as a beacon of hope for the future of animal rights in Canada, paving the way for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world.