Belfast City Council has launched an investigation into the "governance" of Belfast Zoo. The council, which owns the zoo, yesterday reassured members of the public that the busy tourist attraction on the Antrim Road in north Belfast would remain "open for business," while the investigation continued. The council refused to comment on suggestions that zoo manager Mark Challis had been suspended following the launch of the investigation. A spokesman said it did not "comment on individual members of staff". "We can confirm that an investigation is under way at Belfast Zoo in relation to governance processes," he said. "The zoo is open for business and prepared to welcome the thousands of visitors we expect during what is our busiest time of the year."
When contacted yesterday, a spokeswoman for Belfast Zoo directed all calls to the city council. The investigation comes as the Zoo, which is celebrating its 80th anniversary, is preparing to enter the summer season, it's busiest time of the year.
More than 230,000 people visited the zoo between 2012 and 2013, keen to admire the more than 1,000 animals, from 150 species, who live there. The zoo is home to many animals under threat, including barbary lions.