The mayor of Niagara Falls is defending himself following the release of 300 pages of internal e-mails between him and his executive assistant Sarah Conidi.

The e-mails, regarding the turmoil at Marineland, appear to some as a form of political spinning for the park, which is facing animal abuse allegations.

Jim Diodati says he works closely with Conidi, and the fact that he spends a lot of time out of the office, it is how they correspond with each other when dealing with city issues.

Diodati says e-mails sent to his office following the release of an expose claiming animal abuse last August, demanded he take action and be an advocate against Marineland and its practices.

He says his role as CEO of the city is to make sure Marineland pays property taxes and follows city bylaws, but when it comes to animal welfare, although concerned, it is not his jurisdiction.

The mayor says he was asked by animal advocates to meet in front of the park holding signs but it was not the meeting he had in mind.

Many have accused the mayor of taking sides with Marineland.