Royal praise for deserving cause
Reprinted with permission from The Post and Courier in Charleston South Carolina
December 30, 2003 Not many organizations in the world can boast of a royal patron, and it is rare for an entity in South Carolina to be so honored. The International Primate Protection League of Summerville deservedly has such a longtime supporter. Prince Philip, husband of Queen Elizabeth II, sent his greetings on the 30th anniversary of the founding of the charity, which combats the illegal trafficking in primates, including monkeys, lemurs and apes, and operates a sanctuary for rescued animals. "I am delighted to have this opportunity to offer my warmest congratulations (to the League) and my special congratulations to its founder, Dr. Shirley McGreal," he writes. "The League can look back with much pride on its very considerable achievements ... most primate populations around the globe are in a better state thanks to its activities." The prince also commented on the bravery of Dr. McGreal and her supporters in challenging the illegal capture and trade in primates. "This is a very dangerous business and it takes real courage to collect evidence, track smugglers and bring illegal dealers to justice," he wrote. Dr. McGreal tells us that she has met Prince Philip, who is president emeritus of the World Wildlife Fund, many times at wildlife conferences. | |
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