Hon. Marty Klyne: Senator Moreau, the Senate led Canada’s ban on new whale and dolphin captivity. However, 30 belugas and 4 dolphins remain at Marineland in Niagara Falls, where 20 whales have died since 2019.

Yesterday, Minister of Fisheries Joanne Thompson denied Marineland’s request to export the belugas to a Chinese theme park, citing the whales’ best interests and saying she could not in good conscience approve the export. Premier Doug Ford has said Ontario will “. . . do whatever it takes . . .” to give the remaining whales “. . . the best life possible . . . .” This is inspiring leadership from the minister and the premier.

Options for the whales could include a sanctuary planned in Nova Scotia — though it has yet to be approved by the provincial government — another in Iceland and the best available aquariums.

Senator Moreau, will the government commit to transparency with Canadians in exploring all options in collaboration with Premier Ford?

Hon. Pierre Moreau (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you, Senator Klyne. Keeping whales in captivity for entertainment and breeding purposes is unacceptable to the government. Yesterday’s decision aligns with the Fisheries Act, which banned the exporting of whales in specific circumstances. Moving forward, the government will continue to work with provincial partners and act in the best interests of the belugas as Canadians expect.

Senator Klyne: I have a supplementary question. Last year, scientists Lori Marino of the Whale Sanctuary Project and Jake Veasey of Care for the Rare, which promotes animal welfare in zoo design, testified in the Senate’s study of a government bill to protect captive wild animals.

These independent experts have offered to advise the federal and Ontario governments to help find suitable homes for Marineland’s remaining marine mammals and bears. Will the government please consider this offer?

Senator Moreau: Senator Klyne, I will certainly convey those scientists’ offer to the minister at the earliest opportunity.