THE second protest by the National Animal Rights Association (NARA) is scheduled to take place outside Charles River Laboratories facilities in Mayo today, Tuesday, November 24.
The association returns to Mayo two months after they staged their initial protest at Charles River premises in the county and are expected to be joined on this occasion by other groups including Donegal Veg, and Animal Rights Northern Ireland, together with UK-based activists.
The first protest is scheduled to take place between 12 noon and 2.30pm out-side Charles River Laboratories premises in Carrentrila, Ballina with the second planned for 4pm to 6pm at the company’s Glenamoy base.
NARA spokesperson Laura Broxson says the activists will also be targeting the neighbouring Ovagen plant in Carrentrialla. She claimed the companies were involved in the business of animal testing which inflicts pain and fear on the animals involved.
“These animal testing laboratories are one of the biggest bloodstains on our country,” Ms Broxson said.
A statement was issued yesterday (Monday) on behalf of Charles River Laboratories, noting that the survival rates for major diseases are at an all-time high thanks to the discovery of new drugs.
“Charles River’s work is an essential component of the research that has led to these discoveries and has played a vital role in medical advances for humans as well as animals. Charles River has a deep commitment to animal welfare, and we make every effort to exceed national standards for the care of the animal models under our stewardship,” continued the statement.
