Canned hunting | Calls to set the lions free

CAPE TOWN - Cabinet has endorsed the recommendations made by a Ministerial Task Team on Voluntary Exit Options and Pathways from the Captive Lion Industry. 

A high-level panel recommended the closure of the captive breeding sector, including the keeping of lions in captivity, or the use of captive lions or their derivatives commercially. 

Wildlife reserves and game parks are excluded. 

Forestry, Fisheries, and Environment Minister Barbara Creecy says the recommendations will now be implemented over 24 months with the next phase kicking in thereafter. 

• eNCA's Ayesha Ismail reports.