Mink farmers across Canada, including British Columbia, have decided to end their legal battle against a pandemic-driven ban on mink farming. The British Columbia Mink Producers Association and the Canada Mink Breeders Association had been pushing for a judicial review of the ban implemented in November 2021. However, citing exorbitant legal fees that were financially unfeasible, the farmers have now chosen to drop their challenge.
Expressing their frustration with the provincial government, the mink farmers condemned the ban, labeling it as a result of pressure from what they term an “aggressive anti-fur lobby.” Despite their numerous attempts in court, the farmers have faced setbacks without receiving any compensation for dismantling their operations.
The B.C. Court of Appeal recently delivered a blow to the farmers, ruling that their legal actions lacked a reasonable chance of success and rejecting their claim for damages against the province and key officials, including provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry.
While the province maintains that the ban was enforced for public health concerns, the court emphasized that its decision was not a reflection of the validity of the farmers’ arguments, acknowledging their genuine frustration.
According to Public Health Canada, the ban on mink farming was based on reports of COVID-19 transmission from animals to humans, particularly on mink farms, as highlighted by the World Organization for Animal Health.