October 2005

Citing environmental concerns, the Development Control Authority (DCA) of Antigua rejected Dolphin Discovery's application to reopen a captive dolphin facility on the island. With the rapid spread of dolphin shows and swim-with-the-dolphin programs in the Caribbean, this decision by the government of Antigua represents what dolphin advocates hope is a new trend in putting the environment and the welfare of the dolphins above the lure of tourist dollars.

Dolphin Discovery had operated in Antigua for three years, taking over the facility once occupied by Dolphin Fantaseas. The marine park's location near a local swamp had long raised concerns about potential environmental hazards. In 2004, these predictions came true as a clogged drain in the park exacerbated flooding in a nearby town for months, putting both the town's residents and the dolphins at risk. Local protests, international outcry and officials' frustration over Dolphin Discovery's lack of responsiveness to the crisis prompted Antigua's government to close the facility and force Dolphin Discovery from the island.

In April 2005, Dolphin Discovery applied for a permit to relocate the dolphin exhibit to a new location.   But the DCA decisively rejected this application, voting in the best interests of the island environment. 

WSPA congratulates the government of Antigua for its decision to block Dolphin Discovery from setting up shop on the island.   Marine mammals cannot be humanely kept in captivity, and the environmental havoc that typically accompanies such operations makes these endeavors all the more unacceptable.  WSPA continues to monitor the situation in the Caribbean.  Please check back frequently for updates and alerts.