Senator calls for state to investigate animal welfare concerns at Dublin Zoo.

Dublin Senator Victor Boyhan has called for a state investigation into concerns over animal welfare in Dublin Zoo.

His call comes after Dublin Zoo strongly denied allegations of animal mistreatment after the issue was raised in the Seanad Eireann.

Labour Senator Annie Hoey raised concerns about animal welfare at Dublin Zoo, stating that she had received reports of “serious welfare issues” from a whistleblower via protected disclosure.

Senator Victor Boyhan said he was in the Seanad Chamber when Senator Hoey set out her concerns.

“I was shocked to hear reports that animals were suffering at the Zoo and that staff were distraught by “incidents” at the zoo.

Senators were stunned by the litany of stories Senator Hoey set out during her contribution to a Seanad debate on Animal Welfare.

“All disclosures relating to animal welfare concerns at the Zoo should now be independently investigated,” Senator Boyhan said.

“I am calling on the Minister for Agriculture to request his departments Animal Welfare team to request a full report from the Director of Dublin Zoo on all aspects of the allegations.”