When I was young, I was fascinated by whales, dolphins, and even porpoises.
I would spend my free time in Grades 1 and 2 listening to whale songs while working on whale-related puzzles.
Meagan MacEachern The MacEachern Mindset
My love of marine life carried on throughout my younger years and continues to this day.
I may no longer sit with a pair of headphones snuggled over my ears while doodling Orcas, blue whales, and Atlantic spotted dolphins, but I still have a soft spot for them, just ask my mom.
That was partially why last week, when Canada passed Bill S-203, the Ending the Captivity of Whales and Dolphins Act, which is also being referred to as the ‘Free Willy Bill’, my heart glowed.
I’m taken back to those days where I would spend hours pouring over my information books; memorizing the various whales and dolphins, their migrating patterns, behaviours, and unique traits.
I felt a pang of sadness when my family visited Sea World. Sure, the amazing creatures I loved so dearly were mere feet away, but at what cost?
Their lives consisted on swimming around a small pool, performing day-after-day.
This new bill bans keeping and breeding aquatic mammals, and those caught failing to comply can face up to $200,000 in fines.
It also restricts the importation and exportation, and puts and end to their performing and entertaining days.
There are exceptions to the rules, for example those that are rescues, in rehabilitation or licensed scientific research, or if it’s in the animals’ best interest.
This bill makes sense.
In fact, I was shocked to learn it took them three years to pass it.
Either way, I’m just glad to see something has been done, my inner child is grateful for it.
