The recent vandalism incident at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s (CFIA) Kelowna office doesn’t appear to be an outlier.
The CFIA confirmed to NowMedia that it is aware of the incident, but would not provide any further details while the RCMP conducts its investigation.
The government agency did, however, provide further comment on the response it's dealing with in the wake of last week’s ostrich cull.
“There has been ongoing harassment and threats directed to CFIA employees and offices by some individuals who disagree with the CFIA's disease control measures at the Universal Ostrich Farms,” an emailed statement said.
It noted that the safety and well-being of its employees is the CFIA’s top priority.
“Acts of vandalism, harassment and intimidation against CFIA facilities and employees not only endanger staff but also impede the agency’s ability to deliver critical services that protect Canada’s food supply, animals, plants and the health of Canadians,” the statement added.
The act of vandalism in Kelowna saw fecal matter smeared all over the front door and windows of the local CFIA office, with some of it spelling out the message “F**k you.” Eggs were also thrown at the CFIA sign.
The Kelowna RCMP confirmed Monday it was investigating the incident and Cpl. Allison Konsmo said teams were “canvassing the area, collecting video surveillance and attempting to identify the suspects.”
The mess was discovered on Sunday, three days after the CFIA led the cull of hundreds of ostriches at Universal Ostrich Farm in Edgewood, BC.
On Monday, American billionaire John Catsimatidis, who funded the farm's legal fight, and farm spokeswoman Katie Patisney called for an investigation into the CFIA and for the agency "to be held accountable."
