Debeaking laying hens

CAW is disappointed at the lack of preparedness the intensive poultry industry has taken to prevent mutilation and cannibalism when the anticipated ban on beak trimming was to be introduced.

The previous Government had given due time for preparations to be made but this was not done. Consquently CAW supports the need to postpone the introcuction of the legislation to allow the industry to rectify its tardiness.

However a new date should be set and the industry should be given due notice that improvements in husbandry to facilitate the incoming ban without risking an increase in mutilation will be required by the time the legislation is enacted.

December 15th 2010

Roger Baker