Canadian Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson has expressed confidence in Marineland’s proposal to transfer 34 marine mammals to U.S. aquariums, indicating a likely relocation of belugas and dolphins from the closed Niagara Falls, Ontario, attraction. However, the conditional approval granted by Ottawa for the animal relocation has raised concerns among animal advocates who fear potential breeding and performance exploitation in their new environments.
The relocation initiative entails sending 30 belugas and four dolphins to accredited facilities with high animal welfare standards, as stated by Thompson in an interview with CBC News in Ottawa. The potential recipient aquariums include Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, and a SeaWorld site, all recognized by Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Thompson outlined two key conditions for Marineland to fulfill in order to obtain export approval. These include health assessments by accredited veterinarians for the belugas and dolphins, and a comprehensive transportation plan. Ensuring that the new facilities maintain necessary health support services post-relocation is also crucial for complying with accreditation standards.
The move comes in the wake of ongoing controversies surrounding Marineland, where twenty whales, including one orca and 19 belugas, have died since 2019. The park ceased public operations in late 2024 amidst criticism from animal rights activists regarding the living conditions and performances involving its animals.
Legislation passed in 2019 prohibits the breeding and entertainment use of whales, dolphins, and porpoises in captivity in Canada. Exporting these animals necessitates a special federal permit, which can be issued by the fisheries minister under specific conditions, such as scientific research purposes or if captivity elsewhere is deemed in the animals’ best interests.
As the decision on export permits for Marineland’s mammals is under scrutiny, Camille Labchuk, executive director of Animal Justice, emphasizes the importance of ensuring that the animals are not exploited for performances or breeding in their new homes. Labchuk advocates for sanctuary placements or strict conditions aligning with Canadian law if the animals are relocated to U.S. aquariums.
While there were initial hopes of the belugas finding a home at a proposed whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia, uncertainties surrounding the project’s timeline and funding have redirected attention to the U.S. relocation plan. The possibility of breeding and performing activities at the new facilities remains a concern, with varying state regulations affecting the animals’ future in the U.S.
Former Marineland trainer Kristy Burgess, who supports the relocation plan, acknowledges the emotional significance of parting with the animals she once worked with. Burgess trusts in the credibility of the proposed U.S. facilities and believes that safeguards are in place to prevent breeding activities. She emphasizes the urgency of the relocation to secure the animals’ well-being, especially in light of Marineland’s ultimatum to euthanize the whales if relocation efforts are not finalized by a specified deadline.