Laurence Dollimore
MIJAS has put forward a proposal to bring in new laws to protect donkeys being used as taxis.
The proposal includes introducing weight limits for riders and ensuring all donkeys are free of injury and are wearing essential protective gear.
Ensuring the stables where the donkeys live are in a humane condition and that they are getting adequate rest will also be part of the bill.
Mijas mayor Juan Carlos Maldonado, and the head of Mobility and Transport, Nuria Rodríguez, met with the dean of the Bar Association of Malaga, Javier Lara along with the association ‘El Refugio del Burrito’ to plan a new bill earlier today.
“We have to get with the times,” said Maldonado, “We are going to improve the quality of life of the donkeys which, in turn, contributes to the security and guarantees of the service and all of the families of Mijeña who live off of this symbol of Mijas.”
The mayor added: “The donkey taxi is one of the major tourist attractions that this city has and we have to combine this heritage with the welfare of our animals, which also helps enhance the image of Mijas as the friendly municipality that it is.”
The welfare of the donkeys is set to take centre stage under the new rules.
Lara said: “We will ensure that the service continues to be provided while protecting them all.”
Rodriguez added: “These issues regularly come up and we will make them manifest in local regulations.
“We love these animals and we have to combine this economic activity with their well-being.”
Quote “We love these animals and we have to combine this economic activity with their well-being.” if you love them so much you wouldn’t even be offering this service and believe me it is not a main attraction for many Tourists. Many loath the cruel treatment of these Donkeys.