Marineland Seeks Emergency Funding from Ottawa for Whales

TORONTO - Marineland has requested emergency financial assistance from the federal government to care for its captive whales, warning that euthanasia may be the only option if funding is not provided. The appeal follows Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson's recent denial of Marineland's request to export 30 beluga whales to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, an aquarium in China.

Thompson stated that she would not allow the belugas to be subjected to future performances in captivity, aligning with a federal law enacted in 2019 that prohibits such practices. Marineland claims that this decision effectively blocks the export of the whales to any operational aquarium worldwide. In a letter to Thompson, Marineland expressed, "Our only options at this point are to either relocate the whales or face the devastating decision of euthanasia. This is an outcome we are desperately trying to avoid."

Since 2019, the Niagara Falls, Ontario, attraction has seen the deaths of 20 whales, including one killer whale and 19 belugas, according to a database compiled from internal records and official statements. Marineland has been on the market since early 2023 but has not secured a buyer. The presence of the whales complicates any potential sale of the property, which is located near the popular Horseshoe Falls.

The park is facing financial difficulties, stating, "We are fully indebted and rapidly running out of resources to provide adequate care for the whales." Marineland is seeking immediate operating funds to ensure the well-being of the whales until a suitable relocation can be arranged. A proposed sanctuary in Nova Scotia has stalled, leaving Marineland without viable options for the animals.

In its correspondence, Marineland noted, "This leaves us in a precarious situation, as Marineland is not aware of any facility, anywhere in the world, that meets the conditions set forth by the minister for the export of these majestic animals."

Thompson has reiterated that all whales belong in the ocean but indicated a willingness to explore alternatives that prioritize the health and well-being of the whales. When asked about the next steps, she stated, "That decision sits with Marineland."

Marineland has requested Thompson's assistance in identifying other facilities that might accept the whales. The park acknowledged the minister's strong stance against captivity but emphasized that the whales were born in captivity. They warned that releasing them into the wild would likely lead to their immediate death.

Thompson's office has not yet responded to requests for comment. In 2019, the federal government enacted a ban on whale and dolphin captivity, with limited exemptions for scientific research. The law does not apply to Marineland's existing marine mammals but prohibits breeding, performances, and the import or export of marine mammals, except under specific circumstances deemed in the animals' best interest.

Marineland has requested a response from Thompson by Tuesday. The park stated, "If we do not receive a response by that date, we will have no choice but to presume that the answers to our inquiries are negative. In such an unfortunate scenario, we will inform all stakeholders and the public accordingly and proceed with actions that will be a direct consequence of the minister’s decision."

In addition to the belugas, Marineland is home to four dolphins, several seals and sea lions, and a number of bears and deer. Recent reports indicate that a juvenile beluga died in February, followed by another beluga and a harbor seal in mid-August.