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Parliamentary question - E-001257/2015Parliamentary question
E-001257/2015
European Parliament

EU Zoos Directive Guidance and Best Practice Document

29.1.2015

Answer in writing

Question for written answer E-001257-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Paul Brannen (S&D)

The results of the EU Zoo Inquiry (2012), an extensive review of the implementation of the Zoos Directive (1999/22/EC), indicated that the majority of zoos in the EU are failing in their legal obligations regarding species conservation, public education and animal welfare, as required by national and European law. According to the investigations in 20 countries, non-compliance was primarily a result of inconsistencies in interpretation of legal requirements and poor enforcement, reportedly owing to the limited knowledge of Member State competent authorities. This is a concern, considering zoo regulation is devolved to Member States.

I am encouraged by references[1] made by the Commission to an ‘EU Zoos Directive Guidance and Best Practice Document’, which, as I understand it, aims to provide guidelines in support of the implementation of the Zoos Directive and promote good practices. This should provide much needed support to Member State competent authorities; however it is not clear when this document will be published. Could the Commission confirm this? Furthermore, could the Commission explain what further commitments are in place to ensure Member State competent authorities have the ability to effectively implement their legal obligations and ensure, specifically, that animals are kept in appropriate conditions that meet their species-specific needs?

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