News24 reports that a report by animal welfare organisation Four Paws has found that not only are big cats at breeding farms exploited, but the workers on such farms face exploitation as well.
The report released by the non-profit organisation found that staff at the estimated 300 big cat breeding facilities across the country often faced unfair working conditions. The animal welfare organisation has been lobbying for the tightening of restrictions around the breeding and sale of big cats. It estimates that there are currently around 12,000 lions and 1,000 tigers held in captivity in SA. These animals are often kept in overcrowded conditions, where they are not given adequate veterinary care, nor are their nutritional needs met. Fiona Miles, director of Four Paws in SA, stated: "The argument that local farm workers benefit hugely through this industry is a blatant lie. Not only are some workers paid well below the minimum wage, cash in hand, but there are serious concerns about the safety of these workers – with no occupational injuries ever being reported for what they are." Staff at big cat breeding facilities are often exposed to dangerous work, with little training and safety equipment provided. In addition, a lack of hygiene and personal protection equipment (PPE) mean they are at risk of exposure to zoonotic diseases and infections. The case studies investigated saw farm workers being paid R2,500 to R3,000 per month for a work week of between 70 and 85 hours. The majority of workers didn’t have contracts, no set annual leave, no paid sick leave, and were not provided with medical insurance, according to the report.
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Nicole McCain at News24
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