Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 22 January 2026
228. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to report on any engagement he has with Dublin Zoo as the Minister responsible for the National Park and Wildlife Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4917/26]
Amharc ar fhreagra265. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage to report on any engagement he has had with the National Park and Wildlife Service in relation to matters in Dublin Zoo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4916/26]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department, including the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of my Department, has no involvement or responsibility for the operation of Dublin Zoo and therefore does not have regular engagement with the Zoo.
The NPWS is responsible for the licensing, inspection and regulation of zoos and corresponds with the Dublin Zoo in relation to the practical arrangements for its annual inspection.
Inspections are carried out by an independent multi-disciplinary zoo inspection team, contracted to the NPWS, who have a range of expert knowledge and experience.
The Nature Conservation Directorate of the NPWS also worked with Dublin Zoo to agree a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two organisations to formally collaborate on advancing native species conservation efforts in Ireland. This was further to the Zoo’s opening of its Centre for Native Species Survival. The objective of the agreement is to improve biodiversity protection and conservation action for native species nationwide and underpins the NPWS’ commitment to working with stakeholders in protecting Ireland’s biodiversity. By joining forces, the NPWS and Dublin Zoo aim to enhance conservation efforts, ensuring a thriving natural environment for future generations. I attended the announcement with officials from the NPWS and representatives of Dublin Zoo in March 2025. To action the objectives under the MoU, the NPWS staff meet with the Zoo on matters relating to the MoU.
Finally, in addition to the above, the NPWS engages with Dublin Zoo in relation to actions assigned to the zoo under the National Biodiversity Action Plan.
