ONE of the most shocking scenes ever witnessed on primetime TV was shown on ITV Evening News on February 27: the unspeakable cruelty with which a large number of helpless dolphins were slaughtered by gangs of Japanese butchers in what can only be termed an orgy of uninhibited blood-lust (dolphin meat is apparently in demand as a delicacy in Japan).
Dolphins are among the most complex and beautiful creatures ever to grace this planet, with an intelligence comparable to ours and a moral sense - to judge by their behaviour - far superior. To see them treated with such brutality would enrage anyone of basic decency and compassion.
Japan's environmental record is a disgrace. If it's not the illegal hunting of whales, bad as that is, it's the less well-publicised abuse of other marine life.
You would think the strong Buddhist presence in Japan would deter their government from condoning these barbarities, but there again - there was little trace of Buddhist compassion in the Japanese treatment of Allied prisonersof- war and Chinese civilians circa 1939-45.
Tony Kelly, Crook, Co Durham.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article