PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Sarai Garcia, Founder of Fins and Fir Aquatic Animal Microsanctuary
7:42:25
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117 sec
Sarai Garcia, founder of Fins and Fir Aquatic Animal Microsanctuary, testified about amending legislation to include fish in the list of animals banned as prizes at local events. She highlighted the ethical and environmental concerns associated with giving fish as prizes and urged the City Council to take action.
- Garcia proposed an amendment to section 358 chapter 69, which currently excludes fish from the list of animals prohibited as prizes.
- She emphasized the need to protect goldfish, beta fish, and turtles, which currently have no legal protection in this context.
- The testimony stressed the importance of responsible pet ownership and the potential environmental risks of releasing non-native fish into local waterways.
Sarai Garcia
7:42:25
Ladies and gentlemen, the city council.
7:42:27
Thank you very much for letting me speak today.
7:42:31
My name is Sarag Garcia.
7:42:32
A former veterinary assistant and founder of Benson for aquatic animal microsanctuary in Sunset Park, Brooklyn.
7:42:42
I wanna I would like to discuss an important amendment to a current bill concerning the use of animals as prizes and local events.
7:42:51
The existing legislation is found under section 358 chapter 69.
7:42:58
While this current legislation prohibits giving away animals as prizes, it happens to exclude fish.
7:43:06
I urge you to consider adding the fish to the list of animals banned as prizes, specifically Goldfish, beta fish and turtles who have no legal protection.
7:43:19
The practice of giving fish as prizes raises several ethical and environmental concerns.
7:43:26
Firstly, the decision to how the companion animal is a very serious responsibility, which requires planning and commitment to their long term care.
7:43:36
It should not be based on throwing a ping pong ball into a bowl.
7:43:41
When Fisher handed out his prizes, this is not only affects the welfare of the fish, but also sends a message that life can be treated carelessly.
7:43:52
Moreover, will you see me fish into local water rays whether intentionally or accidentally poses a risk to our native ecosystems.
7:44:01
By amending the bill to include fish, we align our community with responsible and humane practices.
7:44:09
Ensuring that we treat all animals with dignity and respect they deserve.
7:44:13
I urge the city council to take this necessary step for welfare and our environment and community Thank you.