Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 July 2022
888. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the regulations which govern if an underpass is fit for purpose with regard to poultry; the reason that it was adjudicated not to be the case in an instance (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39196/22]
View answerThere are no specific regulations in relation to whether an underpass is fit for purpose with regard to poultry. However, there are specific regulations for the use of the term 'free range'. The term ‘free range’ is legally defined for eggs and can only be used on eggs when certain production and processing criteria, as outlined in Commission Regulation (EC) No 589/2008 of 23 June 2008 laying down detailed rules for implementing Council Regulation (EC) No 1234/2007 as regards marketing standards for eggs, are met.
The EU marketing standards for eggs are designed to ensure that the quality of the product stays high, that consumers are protected and that standards are consistent throughout the EU market place.
There has been ongoing engagement between my Department and the producer concerned. It has not been adequately demonstrated to the satisfaction of my Department that the hens are accessing the full range area necessary to meet the threshold set out in Annex II of Commission Regulation No. 589/2008.
I am satisfied that my Department has been fair and reasonable in assessing this application in accordance with the relevant legislation. However, ultimately it is the responsibility of the producer to ensure that the production meets the requirements of the legislation, particularly in terms of Annex II of Commission Regulation No. 589/2008 as regards the marketing standards for eggs.
