Mr. Speaker, today an event is being held for parliamentarians to raise awareness of the scourge of the international trade in wild animals.
I would have hoped there would be no need to address the need to curb the global commercial trade in wild animals, but unfortunately, too much money is still being made on the suffering and slaughter of wild animals. As an animal lover and a strong supporter for animal rights, I believe Canada needs to play an active role in developing a global solution to the wildlife trade.
It is our responsibility to invest in a sustainable environment, free from cruelty, so that animals may live in harmony with Mother Nature. I urge members to commit to abolishing trade in wild animals.
Animals, like humans, are sentient. They feel both pain and pleasure, and governments should take this into account in regulations governing their use and trade.
Canadians are concerned about the health and well-being of animals. I am sure that the majority of Canadians will join us in calling for an end to this shameful practice.