An issue of national importance that has divided the country
Switzerland is voting this Sunday on an issue of national importance that has divided the country: whether it will subsidize breeders, who let cow and goat horns grow normally.
The referendum to protect the "dignity of farmed animals" is being held at the initiative of 66-year-old farmer Armen Kapol. He claims that "listening" to his cows was his inspiration for the campaign he did for 9 years to fund the extra pasture needed for the animals with horns.
"We have to respect cows as they are. Leave their horns alone. When you look at them, they hold their heads high and are proud. When we cut their horns, they are sad, "the farmer told Reuters, from his small farm in northwestern Switzerland.
Three-quarters of Swiss cows, which are a national symbol and tourist attraction, have their horns removed or are genetically devoid of horns.
Capol says horns help cows communicate and regulate their body temperature. It is asking the Swiss state for an annual grant of 190 Swiss francs per cow with horns for farmers.
The Swiss stockbreeder has collected more than 100.000 signatures for the referendum.
According to the latest poll, the results are ambiguous.
His campaign is expected to garner the support of those opposed to the removal of horns from animals. Critics of the method say it is painful and unnatural, but her supporters liken it to sterilizing cats or dogs, noting that it is a security issue.
"In Switzerland, cows have never spoken as much as they have now," said Capol, whose alternative approach has made him a media star.
His campaign is not backed by the government, which says it will drain up to 30 million francs from its annual budget for agricultural growth of 3 billion francs.
"In Switzerland, it is common for issues (which concern us) to be put before the people for a referendum, any important issue or less important issue," said Swiss Economy Minister Johan Snyder-Aman.