New EU law to ban current laying hen cages

The lot of a hen is set to improve by 2012, when traditional hen cages will have to be replaced by ‘enriched’ cages that provide more room for the hens, as well as a nest, litter for dust bathing, claw-shortening material, and a perch, under a new EU Laying Hens Directive

By 2012, traditional hen cages will have to be replaced by ‘enriched’ cages that provide more room for the hens, as well as a nest, under new EU legislation

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A new EU Laying Hens Directive on living conditions will see the current cage system phased out by 2012, when the law comes into effect. Under the legislation,

. The Department of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries announced it is providing €16 million to poultry producers to assist with meeting the strict compliance requirements.

John Mohan, chairman of Irish Egg Association, described the moves as “a welcome vote of confidence in the Irish egg sector.” He said that funding is “vital” to securing the future of the industry,” as “Irish egg farmers will need to invest at least €40 million to convert to the new enriched cage system.”

Mohan said that the move to modernise the egg industry is also vitally important to maintaining its viability and ensuring the supply of home-produced eggs for the future.

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