Bob Seely MP has welcomed the latest financial package of support from the Government – this time for zoos and aquariums.
The £14million fund, announced by the Government last week, will help zoos cover costs relating to animal keeping such as feed, heating and security.
Eligible attractions on the Island can bid for up to £100,000 in funding each.
Bob said:
“This is good news for our local zoo and could also be good news for some of our other animal attractions if they meet the eligibility criteria. I welcome their feedback on this support package.
“Zoo across the country have lost income due to the social distancing guidelines forcing closure, yet they must still care for the animals and ensure their needs are met.
“I hope that this fund will help the Isle of Wight Zoo to get through this difficult time.”
Animal Welfare Minister, Lord Goldsmith, said:
“We know that many of our zoos are facing real pressure as a consequence of coronavirus, and we have made support available to them, including business rates relief and the business interruption loan scheme.
“This new Zoo Support Fund is designed to help those that need additional support to maintain the welfare of their animals.
“Establishments covered by the Zoo Licensing Act will be able to bid for a portion of the £14 million that has been made available. Individual grant awards will be capped at £100,000.”
Further details on the scheme can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/news/14-million-financial-support-for-englands-zoos-unveiled.
At last help for our zoo’s.
Pleased that Sandown Zoo may get some financial assistance. After all it is a sanctuary to the lions that were exploited by the circus, had nowhere else to go and seem safe and happy now.
Quite agree, YJC. If you look at the tiger’s front paws, you can see they have beeen mutilated (declawed). Such is the fate of every big cat exploited in circuses. Further information can be found on the website of Animal Defenders International (ADI)., Thank goodness for Sanctuaries and Zoos .
I feel the general consensus is that most people think you are a clown
Most people just like you are stupid ignorants.. That’s my concern.. Avarage ignorant people who are not open minded and doesn’t connect.. just follow the crowds coz cant research properly and can’t think for themselves.. I will always speak for animals who are abused enslaved exploited daily in all possible ways by evil humanity….