Animal rights

SOUTH KOREA has decided to grant legal status to animals in a crackdown on abuse and abandonment.

The new laws when they are enacted by the South Korean government will recognise animals for what they truly are, living beings with a mind and soul.

Under the new law, it will be a serious offence to abuse, ill treat, neglect or abandon an animal, with penalties including three years imprisonment as well as a fine of $35,000 (AUD equivalent).

This will pave the way for life insurance products for animals as well as a range of other benefits for them.

As someone who is passionate about the welfare of all creatures great and small, I think the Australian federal and state governments should

follow suit and enact similar legislation to protect the rights of animals.

Australia needs a dedicated federal minister for animals and wildlife.

DAVE FREDERICKS, Toowoomba