Ottawa – May 26, 2025
The Agriculture Union, representing employees of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), has grown increasingly concerned in recent weeks about intimidation and threats made online to our members regarding a possible cull at the Universal Ostrich farm in Edgewood, BC. Employees of the CFIA have been mandated by a court order to carry out a cull at the ostrich farm following an outbreak of avian flu in December 2024. The Agriculture Union supports every individual’s right to peaceful protest, so long as it does not obstruct the work of our members. We expect our members to be able to engage in their work in a safe environment, free of physical threats and intimidation. The right to safe work is a fundamental right for everyone in Canada.
Avian flu poses a serious risk to our farms, our economy, and our population. While we sympathize with those whose livelihoods are affected, our members are obligated to enforce the Health of Animals Act, which protects humans and animals against the spread of dangerous diseases.
The members of the Agriculture Union in the CFIA are proud to protect the food safety and security of all Canadians, and they should not have to feel threatened for protecting others.
-Milton Dyck, National President, Agriculture Union
(For more information, contact LakoffA@psac-afpc.com or 581-318-2064)
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