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The following letter was written by Marilyn Joyce, marine mammal coordinator for Fisheries and Oceans Canada, to Orca Network in response to its concerns regarding captivity and Luna (L-98), the orphaned orca in British Columbia.

Susan:

In response to your recent news release, I would like to clarify Fisheries and Oceans Canada's (DFO's) current position related to Luna (L98).

DFO is evaluating whether or not intervention is the appropriate course of action for Luna (L98). No decision has been made, but we are aware of the time constraints and are working very hard to come to a conclusion as soon as possible.

I want to assure you that DFO is focusing on two options: either leave Luna in Nootka Sound or authorize an intervention to reintroduce Luna to the rest of his pod in the waters off southern Vancouver Island.

However, we have identified that one of the risks of intervening is that, if it failed, then there may be no other option than to place him in captivity, as he can be a danger to himself and the public given his current behaviours. DFO must consider both the protection of this whale and the public. As you can imagine, this is not an outcome DFO would like to see.

DFO's earlier decision to leave him in Nootka Sound was made with the intention of allowing him to remain a wild whale in an environment he is accustomed to. I also want to assure you that DFO has not had any solicitations or enquiries from aquariums or marine parks about taking Luna.

The situation in Gold River over the summer has been of growing concern to all of us here at DFO. DFO Enforcement Officers have spent many hours on the water with the Veins of Life Stewardship workers to keep boats and people away from Luna. Unfortunately, neither the public nor Luna are co-operating, and Luna has become further conditioned to people and boats. However, despite some minor cuts from pushing around boats, Luna remains in good health.

DFO will announce a decision in this matter once the situation and options are thoroughly assessed.

Marilyn Joyce
Marine Mammal Coordinator
Fisheries Management - Pacific Region
Fisheries and Oceans Canada