100 signatures reached
To: the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, as well as elected TDs
Ban Unethical Dove Releases at Funerals and Events in Ireland
We want the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, as well as elected TDs, to:
- Ban the use of non-homing birds for ceremonial release
- Require licensing and welfare standards for dove release businesses
- Impose fines or penalties for companies that neglect bird welfare
These releases are often done with domestic white pigeons, not true doves, and the public is misled into believing the birds will return home. Most do not survive after release.
Why is this important?
Many people don’t realise that “dove releases” at funerals and weddings often involve white domestic pigeons that are not trained to navigate or survive. These birds are bred for appearance, not ability, and are frequently abandoned after the ceremony.
Whether it doves or fancy pigeons, It’s a practice that’s both misleading and cruel.
Families deserve the truth, and these birds deserve protection. By regulating or banning these unethical releases, we can prevent unnecessary suffering and hold providers accountable.