A recent Avian Influenza (bird flu) outbreak at a turkey farm near Woodstock, has forced the cancellation of next weekend’s London Poultry Show.
Here is a press release sent out by the Western Fair District:
Given the significant risk that AI poses to the Ontario poultry industry, in addition to the fact that the London Poultry Show presents a potential vector for the spread of the disease, the Poultry Industry Council (PIC) and Western Fair District (WFD) have made the joint decision to cancel the April 22-23, 2015 London Poultry Show.
This decision has been based upon the recommendation of the Feather Board Command Centre (FBCC) with the authority of Chicken Farmers of Ontario, Egg Farmers of Ontario, Turkey Farmers of Ontario, and Ontario Broiler Hatching Egg & Chick Commission, in addition to significant consultation with many of PIC’s industry stakeholders and partners.
While the London Poultry Show offers an important educational opportunity, we have determined that the risk to the industry outweighs any potential benefits of the Show, as well as potential consequences resulting from its cancellation.
PIC and WFD will be meeting early next week to consult on next steps.
