Union president raises safety concerns for its CFIA members tasked with B.C. ostrich cull

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) workers at a B.C. ostrich farm are facing safety concerns as emotions run high over the planned cull of over 400 birds at Universal Ostrich farm in Edgewood. The cull is due to an avian flu detection in December, and the CFIA won a court case to proceed with the cull to prevent the spread and mutation of the virus.

Supporters, including U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have been vocal in their opposition to the cull, arguing that the ostriches pose little threat of spreading avian flu and should be preserved for scientific study. They have been camping out at the farm for weeks, refusing to allow the cull to go ahead despite farm spokesperson Katie Pasitney urging for peaceful and respectful protest.

The Agriculture Union, representing CFIA workers, has expressed fears for their safety due to online death threats made against its members. CFIA vehicles in the area have also been targeted, with one being pelted with a rock, although it is unclear if this was directly related to the planned cull.

Milton Dyck, the president of the Agriculture Union, emphasized that the workers carrying out the cull are simply following their mandate to protect the health and safety of Canadians and the food supply chain. He acknowledged the passion of supporters for keeping the ostriches but stressed the importance of prioritizing public safety.

The union stated its support for peaceful protest as long as it does not obstruct the work of its members. While the CFIA has confirmed that the cull will proceed, no exact date has been provided for when it will take place. The situation at the Edgewood farm remains tense as supporters continue to rally against the cull order, highlighting the complex and emotional nature of the issue.