Marineland receives conditional approval to export 30 belugas and four dolphins

Ottawa granted conditional approval for Marineland to export 30 belugas and four dolphins to specific U.S. institutions, pending final information and written veterinary assessments, the fisheries minister said.

The federal government has given conditional approval for Marineland in Niagara Falls to export 30 captive belugas and four dolphins to institutions in the United States. Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard Joanne Thompson said she met with Marineland and described the meeting as productive. Thompson said the approval is conditional and depends on Marineland providing final information, including written confirmation that a Canadian accredited veterinarian has assessed each animal and confirmed it is safe to transport. A senior government source said the conditional approval applies only to specific U.S. facilities named by Marineland. Key facts: - Ottawa provided conditional approval for export permits, according to a statement from Minister Joanne Thompson. - Marineland told the minister it would euthanize the 30 belugas and four dolphins unless permission to relocate them was granted. - The conditional approval is limited to specific U.S. institutions and requires Marineland to confirm which animals will go to which facilities and supply a full transport plan. - Before any movement, Marineland must confirm in writing that a Canadian accredited veterinarian has assessed each animal and confirmed it is safe to transport. - Marineland has named Georgia Aquarium, Mystic Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium and a SeaWorld location as intended recipients. Summary: The decision keeps the option of relocation open while imposing further documentation and veterinary clearances. Marineland must provide the final information, a transport plan and written veterinary assessments before any animals can be moved.