The federal and Ontario governments are requesting assistance for 30 beluga whales at Marineland, which has threatened to euthanize the whales if emergency funds are not provided by Ottawa.
Premier Doug Ford urged the federal government to reconsider its decision after denying permits for the defunct Niagara Falls amusement park to transfer the belugas to an aquarium in China. Federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson declined issuing the permits to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom to prevent the whales from future captivity performances as per a 2019 law.
Marineland, facing financial strain, sought emergency cash from the federal government to sustain the care of the belugas, warning of euthanasia if no aid was provided. The park also appealed to Thompson for assistance in finding a new home for the whales, citing Chimelong as the only viable option.
After Ottawa deemed the funding request inappropriate, Marineland expressed collaboration with the province for a resolution, though provincial officials did not immediately comment. Ford emphasized that relocating the whales was a federal responsibility.
Since 2019, 20 whales, including belugas and a killer whale, have died at Marineland. Currently, 30 belugas are housed separately by gender, along with dolphins, seals, sea lions, bears, and deer at the park.
Marineland, closed since the end of summer 2024 and attempting to sell off rides, remains unsold due to the animals on-site acting as a deterrent.
Ottawa rejected Marineland’s plea for emergency funds, emphasizing the province’s role in animal welfare. Thompson encouraged Marineland to propose a new plan for the welfare of the whales.
Animal rights activists are urging the provincial government to intervene and prevent the euthanasia of the belugas at Marineland. World Animal Protection Canada criticized Marineland for pressuring the government and emphasized the need for expert consultation on the animals’ future.
Efforts to establish a whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia have stalled, but advocates are calling for collaboration between Ottawa, Ontario, and Nova Scotia to address the situation. Another suggestion is for Ontario to take custody of the belugas under the PAWS Act while holding Marineland accountable for their care financially.
