The federal and Ontario governments are in a dispute over the fate of 30 belugas at Marineland. The amusement park threatened to euthanize the whales if emergency funds are not provided by Ottawa.
Premier Doug Ford criticized the federal government for denying permits to relocate the belugas to an aquarium in China. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson rejected the permits based on a law passed in 2019 that prohibits marine mammals from performing in captivity.
Marineland requested emergency funds from the government to care for the belugas, emphasizing that euthanization would be the only option without financial support. The park also sought assistance in finding a new home for the whales after the permit denial.
Following Ottawa’s refusal to provide funds, Marineland stated it was collaborating with the province to address the situation. Ford emphasized the federal government’s responsibility in facilitating the relocation of the whales.
Since 2019, 20 marine mammals, including belugas and a killer whale, have died at Marineland. The remaining 30 belugas are segregated by gender within the park, alongside other animals like dolphins, seals, and bears.
As Marineland faces financial challenges and has not operated since 2024, there is an urgency to secure a solution for the animals. The Fisheries Minister confirmed that emergency funds would not be granted and urged Marineland to develop a feasible plan for the belugas’ welfare.
Animal rights activists have intensified their calls for intervention to prevent the euthanization of the belugas. Organizations like World Animal Protection Canada are urging the government to take action and ensure the well-being of the marine animals.
Efforts to establish a whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia have faced setbacks, but advocates continue to push for alternative solutions to safeguard the belugas. The focus remains on finding a sustainable and ethical resolution for the animals’ future.