Issue of animal cruelty practices not ‘misdirected, despite criticism

I would totally reject Keith Hamilton’s contention (Letters, Apr 6) that concern for circus animals is “pure sentimentality” and that the focus of protest groups addressing the issue of animal cruelty is somehow “misdirected”, as in his view the loss of habit affecting wildlife ought to be a greater priority.

I accept that every nation should have in place effective conservation measures to ensure the protection of any species under threat.

I have spoken out repeatedly in the past in favour of prioritising the plight of the corncrake in Ireland and against the widespread snaring of badgers that has denuded some parts of the countryside of these nocturnal creatures.