Supreme Court of Canada to Decide on Universal Ostrich Farms Case
The Supreme Court of Canada announced on Friday that it will decide next Thursday whether to hear the challenge by Universal Ostrich Farms against the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) cull order.
Farmers Respond to CFIA Actions
Katie Pasitney, a spokeswoman for Universal Ostrich Farm and daughter of one of the owners, expressed her deep concern in a Facebook post, saying her "stomach sank a little bit" after the court's announcement. She urged people to pray for the farm's future.
"I walk in faith as my feet hit the ground each day. This story has already been written. The ending has been decided, we just need to believe."
Allegations of Animal Suffering Under CFIA Care
Pasitney shared a video claiming the farm had evidence showing the birds suffered from declining health, weight loss, lack of bedding, and having to drink from mud puddles. The ostriches have been under CFIA care since September.
"This is all contradicting Canadian Food Inspection Agency's new statement. These animals are suffering under the care of Canadian Food Inspection Agency."
She described the agency as "rogue" and lacking compassion, calling on supporters to gather at the farm near Edgewood, southeastern British Columbia, when the Supreme Court's decision is announced in Ottawa.
"Please come stand with us while we get that decision. Come for meditation, come for love and come for healing. Let's change Canada together and make it a better place for generations to come."
Author's Summary
The Supreme Court's upcoming decision on Universal Ostrich Farms' case highlights tensions over animal welfare and CFIA regulatory actions, with farm supporters calling for public solidarity.