Relevant Matter
Legislation
Public Policy Area
EU Affairs
Period
1 May, 2023 to 31 Aug, 2023
Specific Details
EU Animal Welfare Legislation
Intended results
To highlight grave concerns for poultry producers regarding the recent recommendations published by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and their potential impact on the economic viability and sustainability of the poultry sector. If these recommendations are implemented in the revised animal welfare legislation later this year, it could potentially result in the closure of several viable family farms and businesses. The
- The poultry sector plays a vital role in our economy, providing employment opportunities, supporting rural communities, and contributing significantly to the overall agricultural industry. Family farms and small-scale poultry businesses are the backbone of this sector, and any measures that jeopardise their existence would have far-reaching consequences for local communities across the country and indeed the EU.
To emphasise that it is crucial to consider the economic implications of the proposed changes. Birds on Irish farms are raised to Bord Bia Quality Standards, and are further audited by individual retailers to ensure that birds are kept at the highest standards.
To demonstrate the importance for the Commission to prepare an impact assessment to assess the economic, social and environmental impact of the envisaged changes to the EU animal welfare legislation. The recommendations put forward by the EFSA must be thoroughly evaluated in terms of their practicality, feasibility, and potential impact on the livelihoods of those involved in the poultry industry.
To stress the importance of recognising that chicken is the most sustainable source of meat protein. The poultry industry has made significant advancements in reducing its environmental footprint, including efficient feed conversion rates, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and responsible water usage. By promoting the consumption of poultry products, we can align our sustainability goals with the demands of the growing population.
To highlight how crucial it is to strike a delicate balance between the welfare of animals and the economic viability of our farmers and businesses. We believe that by engaging in a constructive dialogue and working collaboratively, we can find solutions that ensure the welfare of animals while safeguarding the interests of the poultry sector.
Name of person primarily responsible for lobbying on this activity
Nigel Sweetnam IFA Poultry Chair, Sarah Hanley IFA Policy Executive/Jarlath Walsh Mayo IFA Chairman, Patrick Horgan IFA Meath Animal Health Chair
Did any Designated Public Official(DPO) or former Designated Public Official(DPO) carry out lobbying activities on your behalf in relation to this return? You must include yourself, and answer Yes, if you are a current DPO or a DPO at any time in the past. (What is a Designated Public Official?)
No
Did you manage or direct a grassroots campaign?
No
Was this lobbying done on behalf of a client?
No
Mass communications
Lobbying activity
The following activities occurred for this specific Subject Matter Area.
Informal communication (1)
Designated public officials lobbied
The following DPOs were lobbied during this return period on this specific Subject Matter Area. These DPOs were involved in at least one of the Lobbying Activities listed above, but not necessarily all of them.
As returns are specific to a Subject Matter Area the above Lobbying Activities may be associated with multiple returns.
Barry Andrews
MEP (European Parliament)
Billy Kelleher
MEP (European Parliament)
Charlie McConalogue
TD (Dáil Éireann, the Oireachtas)
Chris MacManus
MEP (European Parliament)
Ciarán Cuffe
MEP (European Parliament)
Clare Daly
MEP (European Parliament)
Colm Markey
MEP (European Parliament)
Deirdre Clune
MEP (European Parliament)
Frances Fitzgerald
MEP (European Parliament)
Grace O'Sullivan
MEP (European Parliament)
Luke Ming Flanagan
MEP (European Parliament)
Maria Walsh
MEP (European Parliament)
Mick Wallace
MEP (European Parliament)
Sean Kelly
MEP (European Parliament)