Victoria city council has approved a motion to debate phasing out one of the capital’s most iconic attractions.
“I’m proposing that the city begin to develop regulations to phase out the horse-drawn carriage industry,” said Councillor Ben Isitt. “It’s just not a good fit anymore.”
The motion would see the operations cease by the year 2023, and instead transition the industry to what Isitt is calling “e-carriages.”
Pressure to make changes has been mounting for years, but it was one particular incident captured on video last May that prompted the BC SPCA to recommend a ban.
WARNING: Disturbing images – SPCA pushes for changes to Victoria’s horse-drawn carriages
It later clarified its response, saying, “We welcome a solutions-based policy approach that reviews existing practices, barriers and opportunities for horse carriage operations.”
The industry says it has since made an effort to make improvements, adding signage, lighting, and outfitting each rig with safety kits. An outright ban, with a shift to “e-carriages” is being called unfathamoable.
“We have people come from all over the world, everyday. This is a bucket list thing for them to do. So, you take the horse out of the carriage and what have you got? You’ve got a car,” said Tally Ho Carriage Tours Owner Donna Friedlander.
READ MORE: Victoria group wants horse-drawn carriages banned
Still, there is heavy opposition. Over the years, thousands have signed a petition in support of a ban launched by the Victoria Horse Alliance.
“What may have been okay 100 years ago, is not okay anymore and we can’t just keep living with rose-coloured glasses,” said founder Jordan Reichet.
A follow-up debate is expected in June. If endorsed, staff would begin working with the industry, phasing it out over the course of four years.