CFIA to Proceed with Ostrich Cull After Supreme Court Declines Appeal
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed it will continue with the complete depopulation of hundreds of ostriches at a British Columbia farm. This decision follows the Supreme Court of Canada's refusal to hear the farm owners' final appeal.
The CFIA stated it has fully complied with all court orders and expects the farm owners and their supporters to do the same. The farm involved is Universal Ostrich Farms located in the southern Interior community of Edgewood, B.C.
Background of the Cull Order
The cull order was issued on December 31 of the previous year after an avian flu outbreak was detected at the farm. Since then, the owners have engaged in a legal battle lasting ten months to prevent the culling.
Positions of the Parties
- The farm owners argue that the surviving ostriches do not show signs of illness and should be spared.
- The CFIA insists that even apparently healthy ostriches could still spread the avian flu virus.
Reaction at the Farm
Supporters at the farm formed a prayer circle as co-owner Dave Bilinski shared the court's ruling. Bilinski expressed hope for a "miracle" that might preserve the ostrich flock despite the ruling.
"Miracle" — Dave Bilinski, co-owner of Universal Ostrich Farms
Source and Additional Information
This report was originally published by The Canadian Press in November. For ongoing Canadian news updates, readers can subscribe to the Village Report newsletter, providing daily essential news at 6 AM.
Author's summary: The CFIA will proceed with the ostrich cull in B.C. after the Supreme Court declined the farm owners' appeal, despite hopes from supporters to save the flock.