CFIA to Proceed with Ostrich Farm Depopulation After Supreme Court Ruling
The Supreme Court of Canada dismissed the last-ditch appeal against the order to cull a flock of ostriches at the Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood, British Columbia. This decision removes all legal barriers for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to carry out the planned depopulation.
Details of the Planned Cull
The CFIA confirmed it will proceed with the complete “depopulation” of the ostrich flock. Although the exact methods of euthanasia have not been specified, a CFIA manual lists several possible techniques, including breaking the birds' necks, lethal injection, gassing, or shooting.
Reactions from Supporters and Farm Co-owners
Supporters of the farm gathered in a prayer circle as co-owner Dave Bilinski shared the Supreme Court's decision.
“Maybe a miracle will happen yet,” said Bilinski.
Protesters expressed frustration and anger, with one calling the CFIA "criminals" and threatening to leave Canada, while another described the ruling as "disgusting." The group then prayed together, asking for a “miracle Thursday.”
Ongoing Support and Opposition
Supporters had been arriving at the farm before dawn, despite heavy rain, showing their determination to defend the ostriches. One protester, Pasitney, vowed to dedicate herself to preventing the CFIA from operating as it currently does.
“It’s murdering, murdering healthy animals that have been 35 years on this planet,” she told reporters, emphasizing the trauma that the animals would face.
Author's Summary
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency is moving forward with culling healthy ostriches following the Supreme Court's dismissal of an appeal, sparking emotional protests at the farm.