Marineland, the now-closed theme park located in Niagara Falls, Ontario, is facing a dire financial crisis and is seeking urgent financial assistance from the federal government to avoid the possibility of euthanizing its remaining 30 beluga whales.
A recent letter addressed to federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson from Marineland highlighted their critical financial situation and the lack of resources to adequately care for the whales. The company’s request for export permits to transfer the beluga whales to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China was previously denied by Minister Thompson, who expressed concerns about keeping the whales in captivity for entertainment purposes.
Marineland emphasized that without financial support or authorization for the whales’ export by October 7, they will be forced to make the heartbreaking decision to euthanize the beloved marine mammals. The company stated that there are no suitable facilities available to accommodate the whales, and the absence of an appropriate ocean sanctuary adds to the urgency of the situation.
The cost of caring for the belugas is substantial, estimated at $2 million per month, with limited revenue since the closure of Marineland to the public last year. Additionally, the park has faced ongoing criticism from animal rights activists and others over its practices, leading to financial strain.
Despite the challenges, a government official mentioned that Minister Thompson is open to reviewing new export requests for the beluga whales if they meet the stringent criteria outlined in the Fisheries Act. However, the official also suggested that Marineland should have better prepared for the impact of the legislation banning captive marine mammals in Canada.
In the absence of federal intervention, Ontario’s PAWS Act allows the provincial government to intervene in cases of distressed animals and potentially recover associated costs from the owner later. Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed disappointment over the denial of the export permit and emphasized the importance of finding a solution to ensure the whales’ well-being.
World Animal Protection Canada’s Executive Director, Colin Saravanamuttoo, criticized Marineland’s actions as morally reprehensible and called on Premier Ford to utilize the powers under the PAWS Act to intervene and provide immediate care to the beluga whales.
The situation at Marineland underscores the complex challenges faced by the company and the pressing need for collaborative efforts to safeguard the welfare of the remaining beluga whales.