Overview
- Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson denied export permits for a proposed transfer of 30 belugas to Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, citing the Fisheries Act and marine mammal welfare.
- Thompson said she visited Marineland last month, called captivity for entertainment unacceptable, and indicated she would consider future applications centered on the whales’ health.
- The 30 belugas are the last captive whales in Canada, with 20 cetacean deaths at Marineland reported since 2019.
- Ontario has conducted more than 200 inspections since 2020 and issued 33 compliance orders, with outstanding directives on water systems, records and enclosure conditions.
- A proposed Nova Scotia sea sanctuary is not operational, Premier Doug Ford voiced disappointment and urged alternatives, and animal‑welfare groups praised the federal decision.