The federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) has rejected Marineland Canada’s proposal to send its remaining 30 beluga whales to a theme park in China.
DFO Minister Joanne Thompson stated that she could not “in good conscience” authorize the export, noting that her decision was consistent with the Fisheries Act aimed at safeguarding marine mammals from exploitation.
“Approving this request would have led to a continued existence in captivity and a return to public entertainment,” Thompson remarked.
“Like many others, I feel frustrated that these whales have endured a life in captivity, resulting in declining health,” she added. “Canadians expect me to prioritize the well-being of the whales. Given the challenging circumstances and unfortunate outcomes, that is precisely what I have done.”
In a Wednesday interview with CBC News, Thompson disclosed that she personally visited Marineland last month and “looked the belugas in the eye.”
“It was clear to me that whales belong in the ocean,” she stated. “Witnessing 30 belugas confined in small spaces was extremely hard to bear.”
The 2019 Ending the Captivity of Whales and Dolphins Act prohibits the holding of whales, dolphins, and porpoises for breeding or entertainment purposes in Canada. Exporting these animals necessitates a special federal permit.
The fisheries minister can only grant an export permit if it is intended for scientific research or if keeping the animal in captivity elsewhere is deemed to be in its best interest.
Thompson expressed her willingness to consider future permit requests focused on the health and welfare of the whales but mentioned that the next course of action for the whales lies with Marineland and the provincial authorities.
Premier Ford expresses ‘disappointment’
According to a source who spoke to CBC News, Marineland is about to file for bankruptcy following the minister’s decision, claiming that the facility is no longer operational and has depleted its funds. Maintaining the whales costs approximately $2 million monthly.
The source indicated that Marineland plans to transfer the whales to the government for euthanasia, although it remains uncertain whether the provincial or federal government will take responsibility.
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“We are not going to keep these whales, nor will we euthanize them,” the source stated. “The [federal] minister expressed a desire to prevent them from remaining in captivity, yet now they face death.”
In a letter from Marineland to Thompson dated October 1 and obtained by CBC News, the facility acknowledged the possibility of euthanizing the whales.
“During your visit to Marineland on September 25, 2025, we made it clear: without the export permits you denied today, Marineland’s bankruptcy is unavoidable, and the whales will either enter government custody or be euthanized,” the letter stated.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his “disappointment that the federal government did not approve the relocation” of the whales.
“I strongly urge the federal government to permit us to ensure these whales can thrive in a great environment or a new habitat…. We don’t have to relocate all 30 at once. We can move a few at a time. Our goal is their survival.”
Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in China has confirmed it is contemplating acquiring the belugas.
This year, Marineland Canada did not open to the public and began selling off its amusement rides. Drone footage taken by CBC News in July showed staff continuing to care for and interact with the remaining belugas and dolphins.
Staff members at Marineland were seen in late July feeding, petting and interacting with the belugas and dolphins that remain at the now-closed theme park in Niagara Falls, Ont.
The province’s solicitor general, Michael Kerzner, supervises animal welfare matters. Provincial officials have conducted numerous inspections at Marineland over the past five years to assess the animals and their surroundings.
Kerzner and Thompson’s offices confirmed last week that they were scheduled to meet to discuss Marineland’s application.
Advocates call for whale sanctuary
One potential sanctuary for the belugas, frequently mentioned by animal rights activists, is a proposed facility off the coast of Nova Scotia, although this project has encountered delays.
“I would be thrilled to see the whales placed in a sanctuary, allowing them to live in conditions that are much more suitable for their needs,” Thompson remarked. “That would represent a fantastic outcome.”
In the past, advocates have urged the federal government to assist in establishing a sanctuary.
CBC News flew a drone over Marineland on July 31, 2025, and observed staff feeding and interacting with belugas and dolphins. (Patrick Morrell/CBC)
Thompson stated that she would be receptive to discussions about a sanctuary but emphasized that it is “still early in the process.”
“The whales have been part of Marineland’s entertainment for a long time, and it’s crucial to ensure their health and welfare are prioritized in the initial steps moving forward.”
Animal Justice, a national organization focused on animal law, commended the decision to deny the export permits. Its executive director, Camille Labchuk, pointed out that Chimelong Ocean Kingdom operates a breeding program and forces whales to perform, activities that are prohibited in Canada.
Colin Saravanamuttoo, executive director of World Animal Protection, praised the federal decision, labeling it a significant moment.
“Now, the Ontario province must demonstrate leadership and ensure these animals receive the best possible care. We should not export our animal welfare issues,” he stated in a press release.
The organization is advocating for the acceleration of the whale sanctuary project or for Marineland to be converted into a palliative care center for whales and dolphins managed by independent specialists.
