CFIA to Proceed with Ostrich Cull after Supreme Court Declines Appeal
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced 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.
Background and Court Decisions
The CFIA issued the cull order on December 31, after an avian flu outbreak was detected at Universal Ostrich Farms located in Edgewood, B.C. The farm owners engaged in a legal battle lasting ten months against the cull order.
With the Supreme Court's recent ruling not to review the case, any legal obstacles to beginning the depopulation have been removed.
Positions of Both Parties
- The farm owners claim that the surviving ostriches show no signs of illness and should not be culled.
- The CFIA contends that even apparently healthy ostriches may carry and spread avian flu, posing a significant risk.
Reaction from Supporters
Supporters gathered at the farm, forming a prayer circle as co-owner Dave Bilinski shared the news of the court's decision.
Dave Bilinski expressed hope for a "miracle" to save the ostrich flock despite the ruling.
CFIA's Statement on Compliance
The agency stated it has complied with all court orders and expects the farm owners and their supporters to respect the final decision.
Report originally published by The Canadian Press in November.
Author's Summary
The CFIA will carry out the ostrich cull as the Supreme Court refuses to hear the appeal, ending legal challenges despite farm owners' and supporters' hopes to save the flock.