A British Columbia ostrich farm has been unsuccessful in its efforts to challenge a cull directive issued by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) earlier this year. Despite this setback, the farm’s proprietors remain resolute and have urged supporters to join them in a demonstration this weekend to oppose the culling and show solidarity.
The farm has also disclosed plans to engage prominent individuals in the United States for assistance, emphasizing that they are exploring all available options. The Universal Ostrich Farm, situated near Edgewood, B.C., approximately 200 kilometers away from Kelowna, has garnered global attention due to the outbreak of avian flu, which has had severe repercussions on the poultry industry in both Canada and the U.S.
Following the discovery of two deceased birds at the Universal Ostrich Farm that tested positive for a novel strain of avian flu in December, the CFIA mandated the culling of the ostriches. The farm acknowledged the loss of 69 young breeders within a month but highlighted that the surviving birds were healthy and free from any signs of illness. They have advocated for the exemption of the remaining ostriches from the cull, proposing that these birds could offer valuable insights for combatting the disease.
In contrast, the CFIA defended its decision to implement the cull, citing the necessity to prevent disease transmission and adhere to international trade agreements. The agency underscored that scientific evidence supported its “stamping out” policy and refuted the farm’s claims regarding the scientific value of studying the ostriches.
The Federal Court affirmed the CFIA’s authority in managing the avian flu threat and dismissed the farm’s appeals, emphasizing the need to uphold existing policies. The ruling also outlined the farm’s financial obligations related to the appeal process and potential compensation for the loss of the birds.
Amid the ongoing legal battle, the farm has called for solidarity from supporters and is exploring legal options to halt the culling of the healthy ostriches. The farm’s spokesperson expressed disappointment over the court ruling and emphasized the continued health and well-being of the ostriches, inviting supporters to join them in a peaceful gathering over the weekend to oppose the culling and advocate for the birds’ survival.