Canada Approves Beluga, Dolphin Export from Marineland to US

Canada's Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson conditionally approved on Monday the export of 30 beluga whales and four dolphins from the shuttered Marineland theme park in Niagara Falls, Ontario, to several aquariums in the United States, describing the plan as a solid step toward improving the animals' welfare.

The decision came after Marineland, which houses the country's last remaining captive cetaceans, presented an urgent proposal to federal authorities last week. The park had set a deadline of January 30 for approval of the export permits, warning in a letter to Thompson that it would otherwise proceed with a backup plan to euthanize the animals due to financial difficulties. Marineland has repeatedly informed the government of its inability to cover ongoing care costs without external support, which Ottawa has not provided.

Thompson's approval includes strict conditions to ensure the animals' safety, such as a comprehensive health assessment by an accredited veterinarian and a detailed transportation plan to the receiving facilities. "This is a solid plan to allow these animals to live their life in much more healthy conditions," Thompson said. She emphasized that the U.S....