Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo, would like to clarify the following facts concerning the procurement, transporting, offer to quarantine and the subsequent decision taken by the state veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture and Forestry (DAFF) to humanely euthanize the 8 Sitatungas that arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on Friday, 1 August 2014. 1. Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo did not enter into negotiations with the Zoo in Prague for the acquisition of the 8 Sitatunga (antelope) from the Czech Republic. 2. The Joburg Zoo entered into an agreement to offer its accredited quarantine facilities on arrival of the antelopes into South Africa. This facility is used extensively due to its proximity to the OR Tambo International Airport. 2. In terms of accepted industry practice, the Zoo negotiated that in lieu of the service fee for the use of its quarantine facilities, that 2 of the Sitatungas will be retained by the Zoo, for its conservation programme. 3. The challenge arose, when the Sitatungas had arrived after being in transit through 3 checkpoints in Europe without the necessary clearance certificates especially for the Schmallenberg Virus which is evident in Europe. 4. The Department of Agriculture and Forestry (DAFF) then attempted to return the consignment, and Germany through Lufthanza Airlines indicated their unwillingness to accept the animals. 5. An informed decision was then taken by DAFF and the state veterinarian to humanely euthanize the Sitatungas on Sunday, after some of the antelope were found injured, dehydrated and traumatised. 6. Joburg Zoo subscribes to the principles of World Association of Zoos and Animals (WAZA) and the Pan African Association of Zoological Gardens and Aquaria, did not illegally attempt to acquire the Sitatungas. Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo would like to advise that the due diligence was not followed in the release of the animals in the Czech Republic, and this unfortunately led to DAFF having to implement the necessary measures to protect the over 20 million animal livestock found in the country. Enquires in this regard can be directed to Jenny Moodley, Spokesperson for Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo on 082 8030 748/jmoodley@jhbcityparks or Ms Makenosi Maroo, Chief Director: Stakeholder Relations and Communications on 072 475 2956/[email protected]
Posted on: Wed, 06 Aug 2014 17:01:09 +0000
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