B.C. MLAs Rally Behind Farming Family Facing Controversial Ostrich Culling Order
Three Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in British Columbia are publicly supporting a local farming family facing the devastating loss of their 400 ostriches, after provincial authorities issued a culling order due to avian flu concerns.
The ostrich farm, located in the Fraser Valley, has been at the centre of a growing debate over animal welfare, public health policy, and the rights of local farmers. The province ordered the birds to be culled following the detection of avian influenza in the region—part of a wider containment strategy to prevent the spread of the virus. However, the family claims their flock shows no signs of illness and that adequate testing and alternatives were not considered.
In a rare bipartisan gesture, three MLAs—two from the opposition and one from the governing party—have spoken out in support of the family, calling for a halt to the culling and a more science-based, compassionate approach.
“This is more than just a policy issue; it’s about people’s lives, livelihoods, and the need for fair treatment,” said one MLA during a press conference held near the farm. “The family has cooperated with veterinary authorities and invested in biosecurity. We owe it to them to explore all options before resorting to mass euthanasia.”
The family, who have raised ostriches for years, say they are heartbroken and frustrated. Their operation is one of the few of its kind in Canada, producing ostrich meat, leather, and eggs for niche markets. The potential loss of the entire flock could destroy their business and leave a significant gap in an already niche agricultural sector.
Animal rights groups and farming advocates have also joined the conversation, with some arguing that the cull is unnecessary and others supporting it as a vital precaution to protect the broader poultry industry.
The Ministry of Agriculture has defended the decision, citing strict federal and provincial protocols related to avian flu outbreaks. Officials argue that even healthy-appearing birds can carry and spread the virus, and swift action is needed to contain potential outbreaks.
Still, the MLAs backing the farm say that more transparency and updated scientific evaluations are needed, especially when livelihoods are at stake. They are now pressing for an urgent review of the decision and advocating for compensation and support for the affected family.
Public sympathy has grown rapidly, with thousands signing online petitions and local residents organizing rallies to show solidarity. The issue has sparked a broader conversation about how disease control measures intersect with food production, ethics, and government accountability.
As tensions rise, all eyes are on provincial officials to see whether the culling order will proceed or if political and public pressure will bring about a reprieve for the Fraser Valley ostrich farm.
Source : Swifteradio.com
