The Canadian federal and Ontario provincial governments are in a deadlock over the fate of 30 beluga whales at Marineland. The amusement park has threatened to euthanize the whales unless it receives emergency funding from Ottawa.
Premier Doug Ford criticized the federal government for rejecting permits to transfer the belugas to an aquarium in China, emphasizing the need for a reconsideration of this decision. The permits were denied by Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, who cited concerns about the whales being forced to perform in captivity, adhering to a law passed in 2019.
Marineland, facing financial strain, requested urgent assistance from the federal government to sustain the belugas. The park also sought help from Thompson to find alternative arrangements for the whales, stressing that Chimelong Ocean Kingdom was the only viable option available.
After Ottawa deemed the funding request inappropriate, Marineland expressed collaboration with the provincial government to resolve the situation. Despite no immediate response from provincial officials, Ford emphasized the federal government’s responsibility to facilitate the relocation of the whales.
Since 2019, Marineland has witnessed the deaths of 19 belugas and one killer whale, with 30 belugas currently housed in segregated pools. The park, closed since the end of summer 2024 and undergoing asset sales, has failed to attract buyers due to the presence of the animals.
Denying Marineland’s plea for emergency funds, Fisheries Minister Thompson highlighted the provincial role in animal welfare and urged the park to devise a new plan promptly. She emphasized the need for alternatives that do not involve captivity or public entertainment for the whales.
Animal rights activists have intensified their demands for government intervention to prevent the belugas’ euthanization. World Animal Protection Canada has urged provincial authorities to intervene and safeguard the whales from harm. The organization emphasized the ethical imperative of considering euthanasia only under professional veterinary recommendation.
Advocates have long called for a comprehensive plan involving experts and stakeholders to address the welfare of the animals. Proposals for a whale sanctuary on Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore, aimed at providing a natural habitat for the belugas, have faced delays. Additionally, suggestions to invoke the PAWS Act and hold Marineland accountable for the animals’ care have been put forth as potential solutions.
