As Nanaimo city council unanimously voted to ban shark fin products this week, an animal defence movement is preparing plans for loud protests here in Richmond.
Anthony Marr's Vancouver Animal Defence League has a 75-foot banner, which is brought out to weekly rallies for people to sign and comment.
"Once it's filled, we're going to be presenting it to Vancouver and Richmond city councils," said Marr.
In the coming months, the league will also be on the move, protesting at Aberdeen and Lansdowne centres.
However, Richmond's Councillor Chak Au is sticking by his opposition of an outright ban, despite Nanaimo's decision.
"I haven't changed my position on the subject," said Au, who favours education.
"It's a more complex issue, particularly in Richmond. We should consult with the stakeholders for a workable, reasonable solution."
At Marr's behest to city council in June, councillors agreed to allow city staff to look into the matter of banning shark fins.
"The only way is to have an outright ban," said Marr. "But as more and more cities sign on, the alliance becomes more solid, increasing the potential for a ban. It's very encouraging."
While Vancouver is looking into a regional ban to cover Vancouver, Richmond and Burnaby, Richmond city staff is preparing a report on the possibilities and consequences of a ban, which is expected at the end of the year, according to Au.
"I was surprised to read in the papers that Vancouver is considering the regional ban," said Au.
"As far as I know, Richmond hasn't taken a stand on this yet, and is going to wait for the staff report in December."
yrobertson@richmond-news.com
