Canadian Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson has expressed confidence in Marineland’s proposal to transfer 34 marine mammals to U.S. aquariums, indicating that the relocation of belugas and dolphins from the closed Niagara Falls amusement park is becoming more likely. However, the conditional approval given by Ottawa for the animal transfers has raised concerns among animal advocates who fear potential breeding and performance exploitation at the new facilities.
The relocation plan entails sending 30 belugas and four dolphins to reputable sites with high animal welfare standards. Thompson mentioned on Tuesday in Ottawa that the aquariums interested in receiving the animals are Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Mystic Aquarium in Connecticut, and a SeaWorld location, all of which are accredited by Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Thompson outlined two key conditions that Marineland must fulfill to secure export approval for the animals. These conditions include health assessments by accredited veterinarians for the belugas and dolphins, as well as a robust transportation plan. She emphasized that once the animals are moved, the new facilities must provide adequate health support as part of their accreditation standards.
The ongoing controversy surrounding Marineland stems from the deaths of 20 whales, including one orca and 19 belugas, since 2019. The park closed to the public in late 2024 following years of criticism from animal rights activists and others who objected to the living conditions and performances the animals endured. A federal law passed in 2019 prohibits the breeding or entertainment use of whales, dolphins, and porpoises. Exporting these animals necessitates a special federal permit, which can be granted by the fisheries minister for scientific research purposes or if captivity elsewhere is deemed in the animals’ best interest.
As discussions continue regarding potential export permits for Marineland, there are calls for strict conditions to prevent the animals from being exploited for performances or breeding in their new environments. Animal Justice’s executive director, Camille Labchuk, emphasized the importance of ensuring that any export permits align with Canadian laws to protect the well-being of the mammals.
While there were hopes that the belugas would be transferred to a proposed whale sanctuary in Wine Harbour, N.S., uncertainties around the project’s progress and funding have led to considerations of alternative destinations for the marine animals. The possibility of the animals being involved in performances or breeding activities at their new homes remains a point of contention, with varying regulations across U.S. states potentially impacting their treatment.
Former Marineland trainer Kristy Burgess voiced support for the relocation plan, noting the advanced facilities proposed in the U.S. as promising options for the animals’ well-being. Burgess, who worked at Marineland from 2022 to 2025, expressed confidence in the safeguards that would be in place at the new facilities to prevent breeding activities. She highlighted the urgency of the situation, with Marineland threatening euthanasia for the whales if relocation efforts are not approved by a set deadline.
Overall, the potential transfer of the marine mammals to U.S. aquariums remains a contentious issue, with advocates emphasizing the need for stringent protections to ensure the animals’ welfare in their new environments.
