Vol. 559 No. 2
95 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a study which found that free-range chickens are more likely to pick up bugs which cause human food poisoning has come to his attention; his views on the study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25763/02]
The study, to which I believe the Deputy is referring is being carried out by Dr. Tom Humphries of the University of Bristol.
It would appear that initial findings suggest that any bird with access to the outdoors is more likely to come into contact with camplyobacter.
As the study has not been completed it would not be prudent for me to make further comment until such a time as it is published. However, once it is available my Department will carefully consider its findings.
