Marineland opposes the relocation of its 30 belugas to a proposed whale sanctuary in Nova Scotia, citing various concerns. The theme park, seeking to sell the whales to avoid financial troubles, faced a setback when the Federal Fisheries Minister denied their permit to ship the whales to China.
Facing financial strain, Marineland requested emergency funding from Ottawa, expressing the possibility of euthanizing the belugas due to the inability to sustain them. The park argues that the proposed sanctuary lacks environmental viability and financial stability, particularly pointing out unresolved pollution issues and lack of progress in development.
The Whale Sanctuary Project CEO, Charles Vinick, defended the project, highlighting completed environmental assessments for the site. He mentioned plans for a floating net enclosure to house some belugas and addressed concerns about soil contamination by emphasizing mitigation measures in place.
Despite financial support from private donors, the Whale Sanctuary Project remains at a standstill due to opposition from local landowners required for the sanctuary to proceed. Additionally, regulatory approvals from Transport Canada and the federal Fisheries Department are needed for the whale transfer.
In a separate development, the French government rejected the project’s bid to relocate killer whales from Marineland Antibes to the Nova Scotia sanctuary, citing concerns about the sanctuary’s readiness and ocean conditions. Marineland has faced criticism for animal deaths, although the company defends its animal care practices as part of the natural cycle.
The project’s progress hinges on resolving landowner opposition and obtaining necessary approvals, while financial support remains a key factor in advancing the sanctuary’s construction.