France says no to retiring 2 orcas at proposed N.S. whale sanctuary
A proposed retirement home for marine park whales on Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore has faced another setback. France has denied an application to transport two orcas from Marineland Antibes to the site being proposed by the Whale Sanctuary Project, a U.S.-based non-profit organization, near Sherbrooke, N.S.
The Antibes park recently closed permanently and is legally obligated to part with the whales by next December. Célia de Lavergne, France’s minister of ecological transition, raised concerns about the readiness of the sanctuary and the potential challenges the whales may face. She cited worries about the sanctuary’s preparedness for the whales and the lack of contingency plans if they did not adapt to natural water temperatures quickly.
The Whale Sanctuary Project has been proactive in addressing these concerns, having previously submitted an expression of interest to the French government regarding the water temperature issue. Lori Marino, president of the Whale Sanctuary Project, expressed hope that France would reconsider their decision and engage in discussions about the best course of action for the animals.
The project had expressed interest in the two orcas, Wikie and Keijo, last April, with plans for the site in Barrachois Cove to be ready for their arrival by summer. The goal was to allow the whales several months to acclimate before winter sets in.
However, delays in the project have caused some to question the viability of the sanctuary. Phil Demers, co-founder of the advocacy group Urgent Seas, voiced concerns about the delays affecting the project’s credibility. He emphasized the importance of focusing on opening the sanctuary rather than using whales for fundraising efforts.
Despite the setback in France, the two orcas may end up at Loro Parque in Spain, according to Marino. The Whale Sanctuary Project has offered to cover the costs for the whales to remain at Marineland Antibes until the Nova Scotia sanctuary is operational.
The fate of the whales remains uncertain as discussions continue between relevant authorities in Canada and France. Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Nova Scotia’s Department of Natural Resources, and Transport Canada are collaborating on the regulatory considerations for the project. Any application will undergo provincial review to assess potential ecological, disease, and genetic risks.
The ultimate goal of the project is to provide a natural and spacious environment for the whales, ensuring their well-being and quality of life. Despite the challenges faced, the Whale Sanctuary Project remains committed to creating a safe and sustainable sanctuary for marine park whales in Nova Scotia.
