CFIA says B.C. ostrich cull will proceed after high court decides not to hear appeal

CFIA Confirms Ostrich Cull to Proceed in British Columbia

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced it will proceed with the complete depopulation of hundreds of ostriches at Universal Ostrich Farms in Edgewood, British Columbia. This decision follows the Supreme Court of Canada's refusal to hear a final appeal from the farm's owners.

Court Decisions and Legal Context

The CFIA stated it has complied with all court orders and expects the ostrich farm owners and their supporters to do the same after the Supreme Court's recent ruling. This judgment removes all legal barriers to the cull, which was originally mandated over ten months ago due to an avian flu outbreak detected at the farm.

Earlier court rulings had also dismissed appeals from the farm owners in the Federal Court and the Federal Court of Appeal.

Reactions from Farm Supporters

Following the Supreme Court's decision, supporters at the farm gathered in a prayer circle. Co-owner Dave Bilinski shared the news, expressing hope:

“Maybe a miracle will happen yet.”

Among the protesters, strong emotions were evident. One called the CFIA “criminals” and threatened to leave Canada, while another described the ruling as “disgusting.”

Summary

The CFIA’s move to cull the ostriches marks the end of a prolonged legal battle triggered by an avian flu outbreak, with farmers and supporters left to face the consequences of the court’s final decision.

Author's Summary

The CFIA will carry out the ostrich cull after the Supreme Court declined to hear the farmers' appeal, ending a lengthy legal battle over avian flu containment in British Columbia.

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Prince George Citizen Prince George Citizen — 2025-11-06

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