Hybrid Turkeys Ltd. has pleaded guilty to animal cruelty
charges laid in 2014 after Mercy For Animals released an underground video
taken in the company’s barns near Bright.
Mercy For Animals president Nathan Runkle said in a press
release Monday this case graphically illustrates the cruel, inhumane and
illegal abuses that turkeys and other farmed animals endure on Canada’s factory
farms.
“While we praise law enforcement for securing a landmark
cruelty conviction in this case of horrific animal abuse, the meagre fine
doesn’t fit the crime,” Runkle said.
“This factory farm got a slap on the wrist for clubbing
animals over the head. We must do more to protect animals on factory farms from
sickening cruelty.”
Hybrid Turkeys says it took immediate action to investigate
the incident and the employees involved when made aware of the situation.
“Our company has zero tolerance for animal abuse,” said Hybrid
Turkeys managing director Dave Libertini.
“We took immediate steps to address this situation. We have
a solid record of investment of time and resources into all aspects of animal
welfare – including research and advocacy as well as policy, procedures and
training. This will continue in the future.”
Dr. Helen Wojcinski, manager of science and sustainability
for Hybrid Turkeys, said the isolated incident made their internal programs
even stronger.
