An investigation is underway after a worker was reportedly “locked in with the lions” at Belfast Zoo.
It has been reported that the worker was in the enclosure to tend to the animals along with a more experienced member of staff, who then left the paddock.
The gate was then locked and the animals were free to move around leaving the staff member locked in.
The incident,reported by the Belfast Telegraph, is understood to have happened at the Belfast City Council owned facility last week.
It is not clear how long the individual was left in the enclosure. A spokesperson for the council said it is aware of the incident and a probe is underway.
“We take the safety of all our staff, visitors and animals very seriously, and an investigation is underway into the circumstances of this incident.
“We cannot comment further while this is ongoing.”
Belfast Zoo is home to a pride of Barbary lions, one of the largest lion sub-species. This big cat can measure one metre in height at the shoulder and up to three and a half metres in length. Average weight can be up to 230 kilograms.
It is understood the individual involved is an adult who was participating in one of the zoo’s training opportunities.
The facility offers apprenticeship programmes and also takes part in the Department for Communities JobStart Scheme which offers the opportunity to gain skills and experience in the workplace to unemployed 50-64 year-olds.
It’s believed the incident has also been reported to the Heath and Safety Executive NI, who said it cannot comment on individual companies or organisations.
Vice chair of Stormont’s all party group on animal welfare, UUP MLA Robbie Butler said the zoo needs to look again at its policies and procedures.
“Whilst the primary concern must be with the individual involved, it also raises concerns about animal welfare,” he added.
