The Cyprus Animal Party has criticised the Limassol Municipal Council’s decision to continue the operation of the city’s zoo, describing it as a deeply disappointing step backwards.
In a statement, the party said the decision reflected outdated views on the keeping of animals in captivity and failed to take into account modern scientific understanding of animal welfare, current ethical standards and growing public concern over the use of animals for entertainment.
The party said it was particularly concerned that the discussion appeared to focus largely on the zoo’s history, its place in the memory of older generations and its connection to the city’s past.
While acknowledging the emotional attachment some residents may have to the site, the party argued that history cannot be used to justify the continuation of practices it considers outdated.
It called on Limassol Municipality to set out its next steps with full transparency and said it would continue to closely follow developments relating to the welfare of the animals and the future of the site.
Source: CNA
