The government will intervene to support Dublin Zoo and Fota Wildlife Park.
The Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said a bailout from the government will be provided to help the two parks survive COVID-19 enforced closures.
Dublin Zoo has warned it may have to close permanently due to the lack of revenue from visitors with Fota Wildlife Park facing similar problems.
Helen Clarke Bennett works in the African Planes section, she says it would be a huge loss for the whole country.
"Children love to come from all over the country and learn about the animals here."
Ms Clarke Bennett grew up around Dublin Zoo and her father worked as a keeper there.
Dublin Zoo will get the help it needs. A brilliant facility that is loved by young and old - we can all look forward to being back there when this is over. 🦁🐯🐻
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) November 18, 2020
The food bill for the over 400 species that live at the zoo is half a million euro per month.
Zookeeper Hannah Wilson says the elephants are one of the Zoo's most popular animal.
It cost €75 euro a day to keep an elephants belly full, and they've 9!
In the reptile house Zoo keeper Ciaran McMann says the financial situation is serious.
"That's a very strong possibility that have to close the gates of Dublin Zoo unless we can raise that funding."
❤ Save Dublin Zoo ❤
As Ireland’s largest family attraction, we've been doing our best to stay positive and stay afloat during these difficult times, but now, we need your help. pic.twitter.com/nFbkSAc3zM
— Dublin Zoo (@DublinZoo) November 18, 2020
You can adopt an animal or make a donation on Dublin Zoo's website.
