Canada shelves bill to phase out captivity of elephants and great apes

The bill, known as the Jane Goodall Act and named for the renowned conservationist, passed its final Senate reading in December 2024. However, it was lost when Parliament was prorogued in January 2025.

Animal welfare advocates believe the government’s current focus on economic challenges, particularly trade disputes, is hindering any potential revival of the bill.

Initially introduced in 2020 by the late Manitoba Senator Murray Sinclair and later reintroduced by Senator Marty Klyne, the bill – formally Bill S-15 – was also supported by Goodall, who passed away last year.

The proposed legislation aimed to prevent new instances of elephant and great ape captivity. It would have restricted zoos and similar establishments from importing, exporting, or breeding these animals, except for conservation, welfare, or scientific research purposes, rather than entertainment or commercial gain. It also would have prohibited the use of these animals for entertainment, including elephant rides.

“Since the election occurred, we haven’t seen any movement on this front,” stated Camille Labchuk, executive director of Animal Justice.

In March, a coalition of animal advocates and zoos, including the Toronto and Calgary Zoos, sent a letter to Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin urging the government to prioritize legislation protecting captive animals. The letter emphasized the group’s belief that the law was “necessary and welcome.”

The response from Minister Dabrusin, shared with CBC News, did not directly address the group’s request. She cited the bill’s status on the Order Paper and referenced the government’s broader legislative agenda, emphasizing that provinces and territories are primarily responsible for animal welfare.

A spokesperson for Dabrusin stated that any future consideration of similar legislation would require it to be reintroduced, and no decision has been made regarding the bill’s future.

“It’s incumbent on them to explain more to Canadians if they’re backing away from this and why,” Labchuk said.

Currently, approximately 23 elephants reside in Canada, with fluctuations in numbers. Three are at the Granby Zoo in Quebec, one is at the Edmonton Valley Zoo, and a significant herd of 19 is located at African Lion Safari near Hamilton. Two elephants were recently exported to the United States, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Angela Fernandez, director of the animal law program at the University of Toronto, described the lack of action as a “real lost opportunity,” noting the progress already made. She believes the bill could easily be revived, but acknowledges that the current government’s focus on economic development may make that unlikely, citing the perception that “animals don’t vote.”