Supreme Court won’t hear appeal in B.C. ostrich case, opening door to controversial cull | RCI

Supreme Court Declines to Hear Appeal in B.C. Ostrich Cull Case

The Supreme Court refused to hear an appeal that would have challenged an order to cull over 300 ostriches in British Columbia due to an avian flu outbreak. This decision lifts the temporary stay that had previously delayed the cull.

Family Response and Legal Backing

Katie Pasitney, a spokesperson for the ostrich farm, spoke outside the premises, revealing that her mother remains inside the house, deeply devastated by the ruling. Pasitney emphasized the family's determination to hold the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) accountable and to push for reforms preventing the agency from euthanizing healthy animals and destroying small farms' livelihoods.

"This is what pain looks like, Canada. She’s going to lose everything she ever loved for 35 years," Pasitney said, sharing a live Facebook video highlighting her mother, Karen Espersen, a farm co-owner, who was embracing supporters while crying.

Supporters gathered around the family, offering comfort and expressing their solidarity during this difficult time.

External Support and Criticism of the Cull

Following the Supreme Court's ruling, CBC News received communication from a public relations firm representing U.S. billionaire John Catsimatidis, who personally funded the farm’s legal defence. Catsimatidis brought the case to the attention of U.S. officials earlier in the year.

"The case is a test of compassion and common sense," Catsimatidis stated, calling the cull order "an instance of egregious government overreach."

Family’s Appeal for Reconsideration

Pasitney urged both the CFIA and the courts to reconsider their decisions and allow the ostriches to live, highlighting the emotional toll on the family and their commitment to saving the birds.

Summary

The Supreme Court’s refusal to hear the appeal paves the way for a contentious cull of ostriches in B.C., deeply affecting the farm family, who seek accountability and change in animal welfare policies.

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Radio-Canada Radio-Canada — 2025-11-06

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