Crews in Hazmat Suits Move In on Ostriches at B.C. Farm
Supporters of the ostrich farm shouted expletives as Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) agents began rounding up birds following a key court decision.
Supreme Court Dismisses Appeal to Save Flock
The Supreme Court dismissed an appeal from Universal Ostrich, allowing the planned cull of hundreds of ostriches to proceed.
Reactions from Lawmakers
Several Members of Parliament (MPs) in Ottawa shared their responses to the ruling. Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, expressed support for the decision:
“We obviously are pleased to see the decision. It's important that the minister of agriculture and CFIA are able to protect the health of the general Canadian public and the food we consume, and the poultry industry, as well.”
Scott Anderson, the Conservative MP representing the area of the ostrich farm, voiced disappointment:
“It goes to underscore the structural need for change in the CFIA.”
However, Anderson declined to say whether he had requested the government to halt the cull when questions arose from reporters.
Context of the Avian Influenza Outbreak in B.C.
The avian influenza outbreak has heavily impacted British Columbia since 2022. CBC reporter Akshay, based in Vancouver, highlighted this ongoing challenge as the CFIA continued to capture the birds.
Key Points:
- The Supreme Court ruling cleared the way for the ostrich cull at the B.C. farm.
- The decision drew mixed reactions from Canadian politicians.
- The CFIA's role in protecting public health and the poultry industry was emphasized.
- B.C. faces significant effects from the persistent avian influenza outbreak.
Author's Summary: The Supreme Court ruling allowed the CFIA to begin culling ostriches in B.C., sparking political reactions amid an ongoing avian flu crisis impacting the province since 2022.