The Supreme Court of Canada has made the controversial decision to dismiss an appeal that sought to prevent the culling of hundreds of ostriches at Universal Ostrich Farms in British Columbia. The cull was necessitated by an outbreak of avian flu that led to the deaths of several birds, with food inspectors issuing the order late last year.
Universal Ostrich Farms has actively contested this decision, claiming that the surviving ostriches could be used for scientific research instead of being culled. However, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) maintains that the culling is essential to mitigate risks posed by the remaining birds, which, they argue, could carry the virus and endanger both wildlife and human populations.
The decision from Canada's top court means that the cull can proceed as legally mandated. Following the ruling, the CFIA indicated it would commence with the cull, although it did not provide a specific timeline for when this would happen. In light of this development, it's unclear whether the farm will explore additional options to intercede in the culling process.
Emotional reactions have surfaced from the farm's owners, particularly from Katie Pasitney, who expressed her despair through social media, urging prayers for a miracle to save the ostriches. Over 60 protesters demonstrated at the farm in support of the animals, reflecting the growing backlash against the government's role in this situation.
As the farm remains under the CFIA's custody since late September, concerns persist regarding the treatment of the animals and the ethics surrounding government interventions in animal agricultural practices.
