Press Releases

SFH on supply of live poultry

Following is the transcript of remarks made by the Secretary for Food and Health, Dr Ko Wing-man, after attending a radio programme this morning (January 3):

Reporter: (On negotiation with local live poultry trade on the logistic arrangement at the Ta Kwu Ling Checkpoint)

Secretary for Food and Health: Regarding the stocks of chickens in the local poultry farms, there will certainly be a portion of the chicken stocks, but rather small, that is ready for release to the retail market. If we cannot reach a consensus to allow these chicken be released to the market, they will grow and become overage. I think there would be certainly an incentive for different stakeholders to come together to work out an arrangement which is acceptable to all parties, while fulfilling the stringent regulatory requirements in terms of infection control against avian influenza.

Reporter: Are you worried about spilling of chickens in the city?

Secretary for Food and Health: The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has already reminded all local chicken farmers that without the permission of the department, their chickens cannot be released from the farms. If not, such actions may be considered as a breach of licensing condition and the AFCD has already reminded the farmers of the possible consequences.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

Ends/Saturday, January 3, 2015
Issued at HKT 16:51

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