WDCS has learned that SeaWorld will be reintroducing Tilikum to its Believe show in Orlando, just weeks before the theme-park giant faces the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in a court hearing to determine whether the fine issued against them last August will stand in a court of law.
Trainers have not been in the water with the orcas since the tragic event involving Tilikum took trainer Dawn Brancheau's life over a year ago in February 2010, and SeaWorld has not announced whether trainers will ever get in the water to perform with the orcas again. Although Tilikum has remained fairly isolated since the tragic event with only limited interaction with trainers, it is not clear whether the move is meant to appease critics who remain concerned about his isolation; is timed to occur in advance of the hearing where the court will review and evaluate remedial measures to address trainer safety; or whether SeaWorld is interested in boosting attendance numbers with such announcements.
"We are not surprised that SeaWorld is boldly taking risks in advance of the court hearing. It is also not clear what SeaWorld's intentions are, and whether he will be integrated into the new show to be launched in June. The issue of trainer safety, and as importantly, the wellbeing of the orcas in their care, are still very much unresolved issues", stated Courtney Vail, US Campaigner for WDCS.
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