6th
April 2006
PRESS RELEASE FROM COMPASSION IN WORLD FARMING - IRELAND
WELFARE OF CHICKENS MUST BE FULLY PROTECTED SHOULD AVIAN INFLUENZA REACH IRELAND
In light of the first possible case of avian influenza being found in Britain, Compassion in World Farming - Ireland (CIWF-Ireland) is calling on Agriculture Minister Mary Coughlan to ensure that any disease management procedures that become necessary in Ireland fully take into account the welfare of the birds concerned. In particular, if a cull is necessary then all slaughter of birds should be carried out efficiently and humanely. Most importantly, all killing should be strictly supervised by veterinarians.
Mary-Anne Bartlett, Director of CIWF-Ireland, says:
“The Department of Agriculture, in the past, dealt very effectively with disease problems such as foot and mouth disease. Should avian influenza reach Ireland, it is essential that any culling of poultry is done to the highest and most humane standards, and that all slaughter is carried out under strict veterinary supervision.
With regard to free-range poultry being brought indoors, this should be seen as a temporary arrangement. Free-range egg laying hens that are moved indoors should be provided with environmental enrichment to promote foraging and reduce feather-pecking.”
For further information
Please contact Mary-Anne Bartlett at 021 4639038.
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