New Regulations to implement the EU Broiler Directive came into force on 5 November in Scotland, on 10 November in Wales and are now coming into force in England.
In a previous article, Justin Emery of the Sustainable Livestock Group discussed how ADAS was asked by Defra to ascertain the state of industry compliance with the 2010 EU Broiler Directive (Council Directive 2007/43/EC on meat chicken welfare) and how it was possible to develop targeted workshops to help the broiler sector understand the changes and their practical ‘on-farm’ implication. Whilst it is necessary to comply with the Directive as of June 2010, the provisions had not been placed into English law.
But new Regulations to implement the Directive came into force on 5 November in Scotland, on 10 November in Wales and will come into force shortly in England. The Regulations set a maximum stocking density limit of 39kg/m² for conventionally* reared chicken. They also require keepers of 500 or more conventionally reared meat chickens to notify Animal Health if they wish to stock birds at more than 33kg/m² up to a maximum of 39kg/m².
Notification can be made through a Meat Chicken Notification Form. In early December, keepers in Scotland and Wales will receive a pre-populated Meat Chicken Notification Form from Animal Health, based on details contained in the GB Poultry Register.
English keepers will receive forms early in 2011. The form can also be used to apply for Grandfather Rights in respect of training. Although those who directly care for meat chickens are encouraged to undertake formal training, the Directive allows for the recognition of prior experience as equivalent to such training.
Keepers will be able to apply for Grandfather Rights until 30 June 2011 providing they meet the necessary criteria as set out on the Meat Chicken Notification Form.
Further details about the Directive’s requirements can be found at:
http://www.defra.gov.uk/foodfarm/farmanimal/welfare/onfarm/meatchks-newrules.htm
Queries about the Meat Chicken Notification Form should be directed to Newcastle Animal Health Office in writing (North East Animal Health Regional Office, Quadrant, Newburn Riverside, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE15 8NZ) or by calling the Broiler Directive Helpline on 0845 601 4858.
*Conventional chickens are those reared for meat production, except for those:
• On holdings with fewer than 500 meat chickens or with only breeding stocks of chickens,
• On hatcheries,
• To which the term “Extensive indoor (barn reared)” or “Free-range” can be used within the meaning of the poultry meat marketing standards, or
• Organically reared.
For more information please email John Newton john.newton@adas.co.uk