ADPD-The Green Party said Saturday it has consistently raised its voice against the exploitation of animals in zoos.

"We have consistently maintained that animals are sentient creatures, capable of experiencing fear and suffering. We believe that it is never ethical to confine an animal in a tiny cage, far removed from its natural environment. Animals are not resources that we can use as we please, without scruples, simply to provide entertainment for the public. No business should profit or capitalise from the suffering of these creatures," ADPD said.

Mark Zerafa, spokesperson for ADPD-The Green Party, said:

"It seems that in this country, wealthy businesspeople and others with access to politicians are quick to find ways to circumvent the law, or disregard it altogether, in order to achieve their objectives. By paying a relatively modest fine of €57,000, the directors of the so-called therapeutic zoo at Noah's Ark settled their outstanding contraventions and secured the green light to expand their facility, on ODZ land, of all places, including by constructing new cages so that the exploitation of animals can continue."

Meanwhile, several organisations and individuals concerned with animal welfare have expressed their concern and outrage following the granting of a permit allowing Montekristo Estates to continue operating its zoo. ADPD-The Green Party stands in solidarity with these organisations and unequivocally condemns the lack of transparency surrounding the decision to grant the licence. The authorities must clarify how and why the permit was granted, despite the fact that Montekristo Estates is known to have been responsible for the improper treatment of animals in the recent past, in clear violation of the law.

"There is a need for a change in culture. It is unacceptable that millionaires or people close to politicians should remain beyond the reach of the law. Environmental destruction on ODZ land remains environmental destruction. Permanent damage cannot be undone by paying a symbolic fine. The issuing of a zoo licence does absolutely nothing to alleviate the suffering of animals. It is ethics alone that should guide the way we treat animals," Zerafa concluded.