Code of ethics for use of animals in schools

Press, 9 October 1987, Page 22

Code of ethics for use of animals in schools

PA Wellington A code,, of ethical conduct is being drafted for the care and use of animals in schools. The latest Education Gazette says the code will soon be submitted through the National Animal Advisory Committee for approval by the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries. Copies of the code are being sent to school contrailing authorities in advice of Ministerial ap( proval so that teachers

are advised about them this term. The gazette says introduction of the code will affect schools in two ways. They will need to keep records of the animals which are being used. Schools will also need to have an animal ethics and protection committee to ensure compliance with the code of ethical conduct. This committee may be established for one

school or for a group of schools, the gazette says. Schools have been subject to the provisions of the Animals Protection Act, 1960, for the care, protection and prevention of cruelty to animals. But an amendment to the act provided for regulations prohibiting any teaching involving the use of any live animals unless carried out by a code of ethical conduct approved by tSg Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.