CFIA to Proceed with Ostrich Cull in British Columbia
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced it will continue with the "complete depopulation" of hundreds of ostriches at a farm in Edgewood, British Columbia. This decision follows the Supreme Court of Canada’s refusal to hear an appeal from the ostrich farm owners.
Legal Context and Court Decisions
The Supreme Court's dismissal ends the owners' attempt to challenge the cull order, which was originally issued over ten months ago after an avian flu outbreak was detected at Universal Ostrich Farms. The ruling removes all legal obstacles to proceeding with the cull, following previous unfavorable judgments from the Federal Court and the Federal Court of Appeal.
Reactions at Universal Ostrich Farms
- Supporters gathered at the farm in a prayer circle upon hearing the Supreme Court’s decision.
- Co-owner Dave Bilinski expressed hope, saying,
“Maybe a miracle will happen yet.”
- A protester described the CFIA as
“criminals”
and announced plans to leave Canada. - Another observer called the court's decision
“disgusting.”
CFIA’s Statement
The agency stated it has complied with all court orders and expects the farm owners and their supporters to do the same following the final judgment by the Supreme Court of Canada.
Author's summary: The CFIA will resume culling ostriches in British Columbia after the Supreme Court rejected the farm owners' appeal, ending the legal battle and sparking emotional reactions from supporters.