EU to fund states' bird flu measures

THE EU will fund 50% of the cost of any state help given to the poultry sector suffering a drop in demand for meat and eggs because of the avian flu crisis.

Each country will decide how they will support their industry and submit proposals to the European Commission, a spokesperson said.

However, it will be another month at least before any arrangements can be put in place, despite the fast-tracking of the decision-making process.