Canada approves Marineland export of remaining belugas to U.S.

Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson gave conditional approval for Marineland to export its remaining 30 belugas and four dolphins to U.S. institutions; final permits will be issued once Marineland submits the required information.

Canada has given conditional approval to a plan to export the remaining belugas at Marineland to institutions in the United States. Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson met with Marineland officials and said she will issue final export permits once Marineland provides required information. Marineland is reportedly in discussions with several U.S. aquariums about taking the animals. The decision follows earlier government scrutiny of Marineland and previous permit denials for relocations to China. Known details: - The minister provided conditional approval for export permits and said final permits depend on receipt of required information from Marineland. - Marineland has about 30 belugas and four dolphins that it plans to move. - Marineland told officials it was facing financial strain and had warned it might euthanize animals without export authorization, according to a letter cited by officials. - Reported U.S. institutions in discussions include the Shedd Aquarium, Georgia Aquarium, Mystic Aquarium and SeaWorld. Summary: The federal government has agreed in principle to permit transfers of the animals to U.S. institutions while keeping conditions in place. The next procedural step is for Marineland to provide the required information so the minister can issue final export permits.