Canada Grants Conditional Approval to Export Marineland Belugas to US
Government Acts to Prevent Euthanasia of Captive Whales
Canada has conditionally approved a plan to export the country’s last captive whales to the United States, offering a temporary reprieve for the animals. The decision followed a meeting on Monday between Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson and officials from Marineland, the now-closed theme park and zoo in Niagara Falls, Ontario.
The proposed plan involves transferring 30 beluga whales and four dolphins to US-based facilities. Marineland is currently in discussions with four American institutions willing to receive the animals.
Final Approval Depends on Additional Information
Following the meeting, Thompson confirmed she had granted conditional approval for export permits. However, she said the government would issue final permits only after Marineland submits all remaining required information.
“It was a constructive meeting, and I provided conditional approval for export permits,” Thompson said in a statement shared on social media. “Once we receive the final details, we will move forward with the permits.”
Financial Pressure on Marineland
Meanwhile, Marineland warned federal officials that it is running out of funds to care for the animals. According to a letter Thompson sent to the park on Monday—later obtained by The Canadian Press—Marineland said it would be forced to euthanize the whales if authorities did not approve export permits by January 30.
As a result, the government’s decision has temporarily eased concerns over the fate of Canada’s remaining captive whales, while officials continue to review the final documentation.
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