Export decision for Marineland's 30 belugas
Thompson refused permits to export Marineland’s belugas to China to avoid subjecting them to future performances in captivity (citing the 2019 law) and declined federal emergency funding, stating Ottawa will not cover Marineland’s expenses.→Joanne Thompson supports relocating Marineland's belugas and dolphins to accredited U.S. institutions under strict conditions; she denied exports that would permit future performance in captivity and required health assessments and approved transportation to meet Fisheries Act standards.
NewsJan 27, 2026
