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Hope Zoo: the future

Published:Sunday | October 9, 2011 | 12:00 AM
With a little encouragement, it seems, from executive chairman of the Hope Zoo Preservation Foundation Limited, Kenneth Benjamin, Education Minister Andrew Holness mildly touches a snake on their recent tour of the Hope Zoo. - Gladstone Taylor/Photographer
Executive chairman of the Hope Zoo Preservation Foundation Limited, Kenneth Benjamin, leads Minister of Education Andrew Holness and other guests on the recent tour of the Hope Zoo.
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Latoya Grindley, Gleaner Writer

If the vision for the Hope Zoo Preservation Foundation Limited bears fruit, then in a matter of time, the Hope Zoo will return to its former glory years, or better yet will be transformed into a First-World facility.

Two Fridays ago, Executive Chairman Kenneth Benjamin gave an insight on what his hopes and plans are for the restoration of the Hope Zoo. Through a nicely packaged video presentation, specially invited guests were shown an animated version of what the zoo should look like upon completion.

In his address, Benjamin highlighted that to meet their goals, the estimated cost for the project is $1.5 billion and as a result, he and team will be approaching entities for partnerships to help offset costs. "The zoo has been neglected and a lot has to be done," he said.

Other than the physical improvement and transformation, it is hoped that the zoo will feature an educational programme, where students are taught issues related to their interaction with animals.

Following the brief presentation and addresses, guests were then taken on tour of the zoo to witness its current state.

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com