Canadian marine park mulls euthanizing 30 belugas after export ban

International

A MAJOR animal welfare controversy is unfolding in Ontario, Canada, after Marineland, a marine amusement park, threatened to euthanize 30 beluga whales following the federal government’s rejection of its plan to transfer the animals to China.

The park, which has faced years of animal welfare issues and mounting financial losses, had sought to move the belugas to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Zhuhai, China — a theme park known for its massive marine life exhibits.

However, Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson denied the export permit, citing Canada’s 2019 legislation banning the use of whales and dolphins for public entertainment.

“I could not in good conscience approve an export that would perpetuate the treatment these belugas have endured,” Thompson said in a BBC report, adding that approving the request would “mean a continued life in captivity.”

Marineland responded by warning that without government funding or an approved relocation plan, it may be forced to euthanize the animals, which it said would be a “direct consequence of the minister’s decision.”

The park claims to be in a “critical financial state,” unable to provide proper care for the whales after a summer of closure and declining attendance.

The government, has refused to provide financial assistance.

Thompson said Marineland’s failure to secure a sustainable home for the animals “does not entail that the federal government should foot the bill” for their upkeep.

Animal welfare advocates have condemned Marineland’s threat, calling it an act of cruelty and moral failure.

Executive director of Animal Justice Camille Labchuk said the park has “a moral obligation to fund the future care of these animals,” calling the euthanasia threat reprehensible.

World Animal Protection has urged the Ontario government to intervene immediately and seize the whales to ensure they are transferred to proper sanctuaries.

“The province must show leadership and ensure these animals receive the best possible care,” the group said.

Marineland has long been under scrutiny for alleged mistreatment of marine animals.

A 2020 investigation found 12 whale deaths in two years and declared all marine life at the park to be in distress. Since 2019, 20 whales have died at the facility, including five this year, further intensifying calls for the park’s permanent closure and the relocation of its remaining animals.(Xienderlyn Trinidad, USJ-R Comm Intern)