The Vancouver Aquarium is giving up its fight to keep whales and dolphins in captivity, saying the heated public debate on the issue is hindering its conservation work.

Staff at the non-profit attraction learned Thursday morning of the decision to end the cetacean program, according to CEO John Nightingale.

"We absolutely believe in the value of whales and dolphins in engaging people," he told CBC News.

"But you also have to be realistic, and it has gotten to the point where the debate in the community, with the lawyers, with the politicians ... is debilitating our work on our mission."

Last spring, the Vancouver Park Board voted to prevent the aquarium from bringing in any new whales and dolphins, after commissioners said they were concerned about the ethics of keeping the animals in captivity. At the time, Nightingale said he would "fight to the end" against the ban.

The change in his position is the result of long deliberations over the last few months.

Read More...