Statement from Vision Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson on keeping whales and dolphins at the Vancouver Aquarium:
“The Vancouver Aquarium is renowned worldwide for its work on conservation and state-of-the-art ocean research, and its team plays a crucial role in educating the public about the importance of protecting our vibrant local waters and marine environment. It is a huge draw for local residents and tourists alike, and one of the highlights of Stanley Park.
“My personal view is that the Vancouver Aquarium should begin to phase out the holding of whales and dolphins in captivity. I’m hopeful that the Aquarium and the Park Board can work collaboratively and come to an agreement on how to achieve this with a dialogue and review that will be informed, thoughtful, and inclusive. I do not however support a city-wide referendum on the issue, as the ability to phase out the holding of whales and dolphins in captivity is within the Park Board’s authority.”
Vision park board statement:
Vision Park Board Chair Aaron Jasper will ask staff for a public report on cetaceans in captivity, to include best practices from around the world in marine mammal rehabilitation, in light of increasing public interest on the issue.
"The Vancouver Aquarium is a huge draw for Stanley Park, and provides exceptional educational programming on our marine systems for people of all ages," said Jasper. "The issue of cetaceans in captivity is an emotional one for many people, and it is important we have all of the information in a public setting, and work with the Aquarium on next steps.
"Many of us on the Park Board have received a lot of feedback from the public with their opinions on the issue, and we share many of their concerns."
At the next Park Board meeting, Commissioner Jasper will bring notice of motion, asking for a staff report on:
- best practices of aquariums from around the world, and their treatment of cetaceans;
- the Vancouver Aquarium's work with cetaceans, including existing policies on rehabilitation and work with other aquariums;
- an overview of current agreements between the Vancouver Park Board and the Vancouver Aquarium.
The motion will also ask for the Aquarium to present to a public Vancouver Park Board meeting on their programming, including their work to rehabilitate animals and provide educational opportunities.
"Before taking any action, let's get all the information together in one place, in public, and work with the Vancouver Aquarium on a collaborative strategy for going forward," added Jasper.
