Animal sacrifice

The Muslim festival of Eid is getting publicity as a multicultural event, but what is not being addressed is the contentious issue of animal sacrifice.

This festival is based on the story in the Koran that Abraham was called on by God to sacrifice his son. When Abraham proved willing to do this, a ram was offered up instead.

As a result of this barbaric tradition, 100 million animals are sacrificed worldwide over two days. In New Zealand, this happens in backyards, where the animals, mostly goats and sheep, suffer terribly by having their throats cut without stunning in the true halal tradition.

This is a breach of fundamental animal cruelty laws in this country and it appears the Ministry for Primary Industries, as well as the SPCA, turn a blind eye to it.

Cruelty should not be part of any “traditional” practice and it is time this “festival” is exposed for what it is — a barbaric ritual that has no place in a civilised society.

Paul Judge, Hamilton.