Overview

• Marineland has applied to the federal government for permission to export and sell its 30 beluga whales, and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans says no decision has been made.
• Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson says the ruling will focus on the whales’ health, and she plans to meet Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner in the coming days.
• Premier Doug Ford says the province will do whatever it takes to ensure the belugas get the best life possible if transfers are approved.
• Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China has confirmed interest in acquiring the whales, while animal-welfare groups press for relocation to a seaside sanctuary instead.
• Nineteen belugas have died at Marineland since 2019 as provincial inspectors logged more than 220 visits, and the shuttered park has been dismantling amusement rides after ending operations last year.