Marineland, the now-closed theme park in Niagara Falls, Ontario, is facing a severe financial crisis and is seeking urgent financial aid from the federal government to prevent the euthanasia of its remaining 30 beluga whales. The plea, detailed in a letter directly addressed to federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson and disclosed to CBC News, follows the recent denial of export permits to Marineland.
Originally, Marineland intended to transport the beluga whales to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China, but Minister Thompson declined the request, expressing concerns about the captivity and entertainment use of the whales. Thompson personally visited the facility, interacted with the belugas, and concluded that they belong in their natural ocean habitat.
Marineland has emphasized that there are currently no suitable facilities capable of housing the whales, and no appropriate ocean sanctuary exists for their relocation. The company highlighted its critical financial state, substantial debts, and the inability to provide adequate care for the whales without external support.
If financial aid or export authorization is not granted by October 7, Marineland stated that the distressing decision of euthanasia will be inevitable for the captive-born belugas. The company attributed this potential outcome directly to the Fisheries Minister’s refusal to approve the export permits.
An inside source revealed that Marineland is on the brink of bankruptcy after a major lender withdrew support due to uncertainties surrounding the export permits. Maintaining the whales is an expensive endeavor, estimated at $2 million monthly for their care, especially since the park ceased operations to the public last year.
Marineland has faced ongoing controversies with animal rights activists opposing its practices for years. The federal ban on keeping whales, dolphins, and porpoises for breeding or entertainment, enacted in 2019, has further complicated Marineland’s operations. Exporting these animals now requires special federal permits, which Minister Thompson can grant based on specific criteria.
Despite the denial of the export permits to China, a government official indicated that the minister remains open to considering future export requests that meet regulatory standards. Allegations of financial mismanagement were raised against Marineland, suggesting a lack of foresight following the captivity ban legislation.
Ontario’s involvement in animal welfare matters was also highlighted, with discussions held between the minister and provincial officials to explore potential solutions. Premier Doug Ford expressed disappointment over the denied export permit, emphasizing the need for federal approval to secure a future for the beluga whales.
The situation remains critical, with time running out for Marineland to secure the necessary support to prevent the euthanasia of the beluga whales.
