Nearly $7 million in federal funds were spent during the controversial culling of approximately 300 ostriches at Universal Ostrich farm in Edgewood, British Columbia, last December, according to newly released data.
The Ostrich Cull and its Costs
The culling operation was ordered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) after highly pathogenic avian flu was detected within the ostrich flock. Despite protests from supporters and appeals from U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to spare the birds, the cull proceeded. Conservative MP Scott Anderson, representing the Vernon-Lake Country-Monashee riding, requested data from several federal institutions, revealing the significant financial burden of the operation.
The CFIA itself spent nearly $1.6 million on the operation, including over $166,000 for bird disposal and over $150,000 for cybersecurity and office security. According to the data, these security costs were incurred due to threats made to CFIA personnel across the country, targeting both IT accounts and employees directly.
The RCMP’s involvement accounted for over $3.8 million of the total expenditure, with personnel costs exceeding $2 million. Anderson criticized the costs, stating the CFIA offered “bland claims” in defense of its “stamping-out” policy. He further noted the disruption caused to the farmers, the town of Edgewood, and the galvanization of public concern.
Legal costs related to the cull totaled approximately $1.38 million, encompassing litigation and support services. Universal Ostrich farm challenged the cull through multiple court appeals, but ultimately failed to overturn the CFIA’s decision. The Agricultural Review Tribunal recently upheld a $10,000 fine against the farm for failing to promptly report initial avian flu symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the culling of the ostriches?
The culling was ordered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) after highly pathogenic avian flu was detected among the flock at Universal Ostrich farm in Edgewood, B.C.
How much did the RCMP spend on the operation?
The RCMP spent over $3.8 million policing the culling operation, with over $2 million attributed to personnel costs.
What was the total cost of the culling operation?
The total expenditures incurred during the culling operation amounted to nearly $7 million, including costs for the CFIA, RCMP, legal fees, and security measures.
Given the significant financial investment and the controversy surrounding the culling, how might future avian flu outbreaks be managed to balance public health concerns with the economic and social impacts on affected communities?
