Vol. 471 No. 7
127 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Finance if he will review his Department's funding of the development plan for Dublin Zoo in view of a case recently sent by Cabra Garda station to the DPP concerning allegations by members of the public of cruelty to and unnecessary suffering by the two polar bears by Dublin Zoo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21925/96]
The Government has decided that Dublin Zoo requires a substantial capital investment to bring it up to a modern standard and has provided funding to enable this to happen. The necessary works are being put in place on a phased basis by the Office of Public Works.
The Deputy will no doubt be aware of the favourable reaction of conservationists and general public alike to the work already completed in the zoo, most notably the World of Primates enclosure. The Fringes of the Arctic project, which will include new living areas for the polar bears, will commence shortly.
Cognisance will always be taken of any matters which are relevant to the Government's investment in the zoo which, like other programmes of expenditure, is kept under ongoing review.
