The Party for Animals, a Dutch Animal Rights Political Party, Wins Two Seats in the Country's General Election

Becomes First Animal Rights Interest Group To Enter A European Parliament.

This move should lead to gains in other governments across Europe.

Article:

Dutch animal rights party wins 2 seats in election

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Thu Nov 23, 2006 5:12 PM GMT148

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - A Dutch animal rights party has become the first animal interest group to enter a European parliament, the group said on its Web site on Thursday, after winning two seats in the country's general election.

The Party for Animals, founded in October 2002 and with a smiling dairy cow as its logo, was one of 24 parties vying for seats in Wednesday's election, which saw the ruling Christian Democrats remain the largest party.

"We are thrilled with such a wonderful result," said party leader Marianne Thieme.

"Finally, we can start realising our party's highest priority, namely ending all animal suffering," the law graduate said.

Small-interest parties have sprung up in the Netherlands in recent years, fuelled in part by the country's liberal roots, and as people become more aware of environmental issues.

Free Green, a party that advocates the growth and use of cannabis, and Party of Small Seats, which has as its motto 'Love, Respect and Freedom', were among some of the wackier parties.