CFIA to Proceed with Ostrich Cull After Supreme Court Decision
The Supreme Court of Canada has dismissed the final appeal against the culling order for ostriches at the Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood, B.C. Following this ruling, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced it will proceed with "complete depopulation and disposal measures."
Official Statement from CFIA
"The CFIA will carry on with complete depopulation and disposal measures as authorized by the Health of Animals Act and guided by the stamping out policy for highly pathogenic avian influenza."
No specific timeline for the cull was provided.
Legal Background
The Federal Court of Canada and the Federal Court of Appeal had previously upheld CFIA's actions, confirming they were reasonable and followed proper procedures in enforcing the stamping-out policy at the ostrich premises.
"The Federal Court of Canada and the Federal Court of Appeal both determined that the CFIA acted reasonably and in a procedurally fair manner in its decision to apply the stamping-out policy for the ostrich premises."
Enforcement and Legal Warnings
CFIA reminded the public that obstructing their efforts at the farm is illegal under the Health of Animals Act and may lead to enforcement actions or prosecution.
"Any such actions may result in enforcement measures or prosecution. Section 65 of the Health of Animals Act describes the legal consequences of a contravention of the Act."
Transport Canada has issued a notice under Section 5 related to these measures.
Summary
The Supreme Court decision clears the way for CFIA to fully implement the culling plan at the ostrich farm, emphasizing adherence to legal rulings and warning against interference.
Author's summary: The CFIA will proceed with its authorized ostrich depopulation at the Edgewood farm after the Supreme Court upheld previous court rulings, stressing legal compliance and warning against obstruction.