Seaquarium Says Trainers Will No Longer Be In Water During Shows
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) – The Miami Seaquarium announced Monday that trainers will no longer be in the water during show performances with the killer whale.
As part of an investigation, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, OSHA, issued a citation to the Seaquarium requiring it to remove employees from the water during show performances. They say it was not based on any safety incidents but rather out of concern.
The Seaquarium released a statement which reads, in part:
"Safety is our #1 priority at Miami Seaquarium, and we work passionately to maintain a remarkable safety record. Lolita has been a member of the Miami Seaquarium family for nearly 45 years. In that time, our trainers have forged a special bond with Lolita. Recently, due to OSHA's overall concern for employee safety, they issued a citation that requires that we remove employees from the water during show performances. As a result of OSHA's concerns (and not based on any safety incidents with Lolita), Miami Seaquarium has agreed to remove trainers from the water during show performances with Lolita."
In recent weeks and month, animal activists have increased pressure on the Seaquarium to have Lolita freed but the killer whale will remain at the park, the Seaquarium said.
"Lolita will continue to receive the same care, stimulation and attention that she has for nearly 45 years. She will continue to be an ambassador for her species from her home at Miami Seaquarium."