Vol. 537 No. 1
107 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the number of occasions his veterinary inspectors visit poultry flocks to check the accuracy of statutory flock inspection form returns in so far as prior mortality rates in the flock are concerned; and if they rely on the returns to determine whether an inspection is necessary. [15483/01]
Veterinary inspectors of my Department visit poultry flocks at least once annually in order to carry out a comprehensive audit of the operation in general. This inspection involves examining the production records, assessing the biosecurity of the poultry houses and the clinical examination of the flock. Mortality in any particular flock is one element of the overall assessment. Return inspections are undertaken as necessary depending on the outcome of the inspection or if requested by a veterinary inspector in the slaughter plant.
