PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS - AGONY OVER THE FATE OF THE ANIMALS OF MELIOS ZOO PARK - PLAN FOR TRANSPORTATION AND PROTECTION - Filenews 9/4
The permanent closure of Melios Zoo Park, following the decision of the Supreme Constitutional Court, brings back to the fore the issue of the fate of the animals housed in the area. The Party for the Animals of Cyprus states that there is already preliminary planning for the management of similar cases, with the participation of the competent services, while underlining that the safety, health and welfare of all animals remain a key priority.
The announcement follows in full
Following the recent decision of the Supreme Constitutional Court to reject the appeals of the owner of Melios Zoo Park and its permanent closure, there is understandably strong concern in society about the fate of the animals housed in the area.
The Party for the Animals of Cyprus wishes to reassure citizens that this issue is not unpredictable. On the contrary, in the past, meetings have been held and preliminary planning has been drawn up for the management of such situations, with the participation of all the relevant government departments.
Specifically:
- The Veterinary Services are expected to undertake the immediate assessment of the health status of the animals and the supervision of each movement process.
- The Game and Fauna Service may undertake birds and other species that can be included in a controlled natural environment.
- Department of Agriculture of the Ministry of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment has the ability to manage productive and domesticated animals, ensuring their transport to appropriate units.
- For wild and exotic animals, such as lions and monkeys, efforts will be made in cooperation with international organizations and specialized shelters, so that they can be transferred to places abroad (in European countries or in Africa), where they will be able to live under suitable and more natural conditions.
It is emphasized that the primary priority is the safety, health and well-being of all animals.
The Party for the Animals of Cyprus will continue to closely monitor developments and intervene where necessary, in order to:
- to implement the necessary procedures immediately,
- ensure full transparency;
- and to effectively protect the rights and welfare of animals.
We call on all competent authorities to proceed without delay in the implementation of the plan, with responsibility and coordination.
Animals should not and will not be left to their own devices.
