Written Answers. - Dublin Zoo.
Roger T. Garland
Ceist:
46
Mr. Garland
asked the
Minister for Education
if she will make a statement on the inquiry into the future operations of Dublin Zoo; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has recently informed a representative of Zoo Check (details supplied) that they will no longer investigate allegations of ill treatment of animals in Dublin Zoo; and if she will outline the obligations of the organisation with regard to this particular area of responsibility.
Roger T. Garland
Ceist:
154
Mr. Garland
asked the
Minister for Education
the reason for the delay in holding the public inquiry into Dublin Zoo, having regard to the fact that since spring of 1989 only two meetings have taken place; if she will publish the terms of reference of the inquiry in the national media; if she will invite submissions from interested parties, including the Green Party and members of the public; the reason funds from the national lottery were allocated to Dublin Zoo before the inquiry committee had fixed its recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 46 and 154 together.
I have no function with regard to the day to day operation of Dublin Zoo. Primary responsibility for the zoo rests with the Royal Zoological Society of Ireland.
The committee, established by the Government to advise on the overall operation and activities of Dublin Zoo, are currently pursuing their task. I understand that the committee have sought submissions from a wide spectrum of individuals and institutions. I am arranging to have a copy of the committee's terms of reference circulated in the Official Report.
The most recent allocation of State funds to the Royal Zoological Society of Ireland was made in August 1989 — well before the committee had actually commenced their task. The allocation was made because of the serious financial position of the Dublin Zoo at that time.
Terms of Reference of the Committee established by the Government to advise on the future operation of Dublin Zoo
To advise on the following:
(a) To recommend on the future operation of the Dublin Zoo, the approach to the keeping and caring of animals and related matters, taking account of any proposed EC legislation in the area.
(b) To review the financial operation of the Zoo with respect to income from all sources, including sponsorship, and expenditure.
(c) To assess how the Zoo can be made financially viable without public subvention and to recommend on the steps necessary to bring about the maximum possible financial viability.
(d) To meet or receive submissions from interested parties and bodies regarding the operation of the Zoo.
(e) Such other issues as may be relevant to the future operation of Dublin Zoo.
Membership of the Committee
Mr. Michael Doyle, M.R.C.V.S. (Chairman)
Mr. Noel Pearson, Chairman, The Abbey Theatre
Mr. George Eaton, Chartered Accountant
Mr. Nicholas Jackson, Chairman, Conservation and Animal Management Committee, Welsh Mountain Zoo.
