Canada's Top Court Rejects Appeal to Halt Ostrich Cull
The Supreme Court of Canada has declined to hear an appeal against the culling of over 300 ostriches at a British Columbia farm, leaving farmers with limited legal options to stop the order.
Background of the Cull
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) mandated the cull late last year after two ostriches tested positive for avian flu amid an outbreak that claimed dozens of birds.
Farmers' Response and International Attention
- Universal Ostrich Farms has contested the CFIA's order since its issuance.
- The case gained global attention, including criticism from senior White House officials who viewed it as government overreach.
Current Status
With the Supreme Court’s refusal to hear the appeal, the cull is legally authorized to proceed. It remains uncertain whether the farmers will seek alternative measures, such as petitioning the federal government to reconsider its decision.
“CFIA will be moving forward with the cull,” the agency said in a statement after the court's dismissal, without specifying a timeline. It also emphasized that it “expects the ostrich farm owners and supporters” to comply with the legal ruling.
Emotional Impact on Farmers
Katie Pasitney, whose family owns the farm, posted a tearful video on Facebook expressing her distress:
“Shame on you Canada. Please pray for a miracle in the next hour for our family, for these animals outside.”
Summary: Canada's highest court has allowed the ostrich cull to proceed despite widespread opposition, leaving the farmers in a desperate position with the decision marking a controversial government action.