Five workers fired following Chilliwack chicken abuse video

CHILLIWACK (NEWS 1130) – Elite Farm Services says it has fired five workers, including a supervisor, who were caught on video apparently abusing chickens.

The video in question was filmed and distributed by the non-profit group Mercy for Animals. It appears to show workers dismembering, killing, throwing, kicking and hitting the birds and forcing the animals into violent sexual acts with one another.

“We are sickened with the footage and want to ensure all our suppliers and producers that this is not reflective of who we are, our fundamental beliefs or behaviour we accept from our employees,” Elite president Dwayne Dueck says in a statement.

“We do not condone or tolerate animal abuse. We understand the severity of this situation and are committed to taking immediate corrective action.”

The company is also promising to establish an advisory committee to help enhance their animal care practices, and conduct an internal audit.

Krista Hiddema from Mercy for Animals want the workers, supervisors, Elite Farms and Lilydale to face legal prosecution.

“Firing five workers is too little, too late. The press release by Elite Farms is nothing but disingenuous. They were well aware of what was taking place every day. Elite supervisors not only were involved in the abuse, but they witnessed the abuse.”

Industry groups have been quick to distance themselves from the scenes shown in the video, which immediately sparked public outrage.

“Farmers find the video sickening a reprehensible, and the important thing to note is that this video does not, in any way, shape or form, represent how this industry works,” says Lisa Bishop-Spencer with Chicken Farmers of Canada.

Sofina foods, which hired Elite to round up chickens for transport to a slaughtering plant, says they are “appalled and extremely shocked” by the video. They also requested that all employees involved in the abusive behaviour be dismissed immediately.

If convicted, the individuals and companies involved could face a fine up to $75,000, a maximum five-year jail sentence, and up to a life-time ban on owning or being around animals.

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