OTTAWA (June 5, 2020) –

Today at the Ontario Legislature finance committee hearings via ZOOM looking into the impacts of COVID-19 on the tourism sector, CAZA Executive Director Jim Facette said, “what our 11 accredited zoos and aquariums in Ontario need is the green light from the provincial government, we can reopen.”

Since early May Canada’s 30 accredited zoos and aquariums have share best practices, learn from others and shared their reopening plans with government across Canada and here in Ontario. Reduced volumes, online ticketing, health questions, social distancing, one-way markings are examples of methods currently being used in opened accredited facilities.

Mr. Facette added, “we know our industry preparations have met, in some cases exceed, health official expectations. Our members know they need to earn government and health authority trust, we also know its just as important to earn the public’s trust.”

Accredited zoos and aquariums are opening in Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Kamloops and by next week Ontario will have three drive-thru safari experiences opened.

About CAZA:

CAZA is the voice of zoos and aquariums in Canada. We are the leading organization in Canadian animal welfare standards development, our accreditation process includes expert standards set by leading researchers, biologists, and academia who ensure we reflect the latest in animal welfare research, organizational management, and public safety protocols.  Through a science-based approach, CAZA’s accreditation bridges the ethical concerns with conservation and the public interest.

Contact:

Jim Facette
Executive Director
Mobile: 613 850-2669
jfacette@caza.ca