Jamaica was ordered closed by NEPA on Wednesday, June 1.
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Anthony McKenzie, Director of Environmental Management and Conservation at NEPA
The National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA) has disclosed that some of the breaches at Jamaica Zoo Attractions in St. Elizabeth were identified during an inspection in February.
Jamaica Zoo was ordered closed on Wednesday by NEPA, which presented a list of breaches the entity will have to correct before it can resume operations.
Anthony McKenzie, Director of Environmental Management and Conservation at NEPA, says the agency was allowing the zoo's operator time to address the breaches.
He says NEPA took further action following the viral video which showed an employee at the zoo being bitten by a lion.
"The incident that occurred just weekends ago generated and allowed for this action, unfortunately. But at this point, as we've indicated, the issuing of the notice of intention to suspend and the closure of the facility is aimed at ensuring that the proprietor meets the stipulated requirements as outlined in the suspension notice," Mr. McKenzie confirmed.
Jamaica Zoo will be required to among other things ensure that members of staff handling animals are properly trained; account for species held and file related reports or notifications; submit an animal nutrition and welfare programme and engage technically competent persons to assist with its operations.
The entity will also have to install animal enclosures deemed satisfactory.
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