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Last month, aquarium CEO John Nightingale said the decision to voluntarily accept the ban was made by senior leadership and the board of directors after months of discussion. He cited a change in public opinion, the loss of donations from “a couple” of major philanthropists and possibly a drop in gate admissions for the change.

Five cetaceans died at the aquarium over 18 months including Chester, a false killer whale last November; Daisy, a harbour porpoise in June; belugas Aurora, 30, and her calf, Qila, 21 in November 2016; and Jack, a harbour porpoise in August 2016.

Only Helen, a Pacific white-sided dolphin, remains in the pool.

The aquarium’s marine mammal rescue program will continue to rehabilitate animals, including cetaceans, with the objective of release back to the wild.

“Should a rescued cetacean require ongoing care, our team will identify an appropriate long-term facility and arrange for transfer of the patient, which may include temporary housing at the aquarium’s unique facility,” said Nightingale in a letter sent to aquarium supporters last month.

Animal Justice Canada, an intervener in the case, said it believes the “archaic, dying” practice of holding in captivity will soon be outlawed, noting that a bill banning cetacean captivity, breeding and importation in Canada is moving through Parliament.

The proposed law, however, makes exceptions for animals already in captivity or animals that are being cared for because of injury or other distress.