A Canadian amusement park, Marineland in Ontario, has expressed intentions to euthanize 30 beluga whales following a government denial of its request to transfer the animals to a theme park in China. The Canadian government blocked the transfer, citing concerns about the whales potentially facing inadequate treatment in their new environment.
Marineland has faced financial difficulties and has been under scrutiny for animal welfare issues, exacerbated by a decline in visitor numbers. After the transfer request was denied last week, Marineland sought federal funding to continue caring for the belugas, but this request was rejected by Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, who deemed it inappropriate. She stated that the government should not be responsible for the park’s inability to care for the animals.
According to Marineland, this financial strain has led them to consider euthanizing the belugas, a decision they claim is a direct result of the minister’s refusal to permit the export and to provide funding. The park has been closed over the summer while it assessed its animal care situation and sought funding options. Thompson pointed out that Marineland’s challenges do not obligate the government to cover the costs of the belugas’ care, particularly in light of strengthened fisheries legislation that prohibits using whales and dolphins for entertainment.
The issue of animal welfare at Marineland has been longstanding, with investigations revealing distress among the marine life. Since 2019, 20 beluga whales have reportedly died at the facility. Critics have called for more proactive measures from the government to ensure the welfare of these animals, with organizations urging provincial officials to intervene and secure the belugas’ future care.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8jmddp1v49o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss