Businesses Threatened Amidst B.C. Ostrich Cull Controversy
Businesses across British Columbia are facing a barrage of threats and harassment, including death threats, due to their perceived involvement in the ostrich cull at Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood. The B.C. RCMP is investigating these escalating threats, which are believed to be coming from supporters of the farm who oppose the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) cull order.
Escalation of Threats and Harassment
Reports of threats began on Monday, coinciding with the CFIA's arrival at the farm with a warrant to search the property. Businesses have been "flooded" with threatening phone calls and emails, some mistakenly targeted. Staff Sgt. Kris Clark of the B.C. RCMP described the threats as "very concerning" and noted reports of threats to burn down businesses. The RCMP is working with affected businesses to gather evidence.
One such business, Nucor Environmental Solutions, has stated they are not involved in the cull. They have reported that their team members and families have been inundated with false accusations and death threats due to the allegations. Despite this, a video posted by Katie Pasitney, a spokesperson for the farm, on social media has further fueled the threats.
Specific Incidents and Company Responses
Vernon Hotels, where RCMP officers are lodging, has also been targeted, with flyers placed on police vehicles. The hotel reports receiving 50 to 60 harassing calls per shift. Nucor Environmental Solutions explicitly stated: "Nucor Environmental Solutions has not been onsite, has no equipment onsite, is not providing services of any kind and will not be conducting any work at Universal Ostrich Farms."
Another company targeted was Clearway Trucks. After reports emerged of its trucks being rented by the CFIA, it received multiple negative reviews. Clearway Trucks then issued a statement asserting it had no prior knowledge of the truck's potential use in the cull and demanded the trucks' return.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
The RCMP emphasized that while it supports peaceful protest, it condemns inciting violence. Pasitney has since posted another video urging supporters not to threaten businesses, stating that while inspiring businesses to reject involvement is acceptable, "threatening anybody...is not OK." The farmers sought legal recourse, attempting to halt the cull in Federal Court and the Federal Court of Appeal, and even appealing to the Supreme Court of Canada.
The Supreme Court of Canada granted a stay in the case. The CFIA, however, retains custody of the farm, which houses approximately 400 ostriches. The farmers claim their flock has "herd immunity" after surviving an avian flu outbreak, arguing that the birds are healthy and should be tested, not culled.
CFIA Policy and Community Impact
The CFIA's policy is to euthanize entire flocks affected by avian flu to prevent further spread and potential mutation of the virus. This policy aims to protect both the public and other animals. The situation has also affected the local community, with reports of confrontations and heightened tensions. Edgewood resident Randy Donselaar described dealing with protesters and argumentative behavior since the spring.
RCMP Investigation and Call for Information
The RCMP is actively investigating the threats, emphasizing that there is "no online protection" for those inciting violence under the guise of protesting. Investigators are also examining those counseling or inciting others to these acts. Staff Sgt. Clark advises businesses receiving threats to preserve all communications for the police. The RCMP urges anyone with information to contact their local police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
