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Ontario moves to protect marine animals

Marine mammals – such as dolphins, belugas and walruses – will see enhanced standards of care as the province moves forward with legislation to ensure greater protection and improved treatment.

Marine mammals – such as  dolphins, belugas and walruses – will see enhanced standards of care as the province moves forward with legislation to ensure greater protection and improved treatment.

A government news release states, "These new standards of care, reflecting advice from an expert report by University of British Columbia marine biologist Dr. David Rosen, will be among the best in the world."

New standards would be developed in a number of areas including:

  • The size of pools used to house marine mammals
  • Environmental considerations such as bacteria content, noise and lighting
  • Appropriate social groupings
  • Regulations for the handling and display of marine mammals

A technical advisory group composed of veterinarians, animal welfare groups, industry, and enforcement partners will provide advice on the final standards and timing of their implementation.

This group will report back with their findings within six months.

The government will also be moving forward with legislation to prohibit the future breeding and acquisition of orcas (killer whales) and establish Animal Welfare Committees at every facility with marine mammals.

These committees will provide both oversight and access to additional protections such as veterinarians with expertise in marine mammals.

“Our government is moving forward with stronger protections for marine mammals to ensure these unique animals receive the best possible treatment and care,"  said Yasir Naqvi, Minister of Community Safety and Correctional Services

Ontario will be the first province to set specific standards of care for marine mammals and has the toughest animal protection laws in Canada.

There are over 60 zoos and aquariums in Ontario — more than any other province.


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