6. Statement by the Minister for Environment, Energy and Rural Affairs: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 5:56 pm on 13 May 2020.

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Photo of Darren Millar Darren Millar Conservative 5:56, 13 May 2020

Minister, you've consistently talked about animal welfare both today and, of course, ever since you were appointed to this important role, and I share your commitment to animal welfare. One thing that you could do to support animal welfare in the current crisis is to establish a Welsh zoo support fund. You'll be aware that the UK Government has established a £14 million zoo support fund to support animal welfare in zoos, aquariums and other animal attractions in England to help get them through the pandemic. That fund provides up to £100,000 on top of the other support that it is already available from the Treasury, in recognition that zoos still have animals that have to be cared for in spite of the fact that they're closed and not receiving anything in terms of income from ticket sales. 

Now, of course, this sort of fund could provide a huge boost to animal attractions across Wales, including the Welsh Mountain Zoo in my constituency, and places like Anglesey Sea Zoo, Rhyl SeaQuarium and other places in north Wales and, indeed, across the whole of the nation. Will you commit today to establishing a Welsh zoo support fund to support animal welfare in our zoos and animal attractions across Wales?