FG MEP says EU directive will devastate chicken farms

A Fine Gael MEP has expressed concern about the effects of a new EU animal welfare directive on Irish chicken producers.

The directive, which aims to improve conditions for poultry kept on battery farms, was approved by the European Parliament today.

However, Fine Gael's Mairead McGuinness has claimed it is unwarranted and will cut Irish producers' incomes by 16%, making them uncompetitive and uneconomic.

"The chicken industry across Europe is under pressure," she said. "This directive, instead of helping animal welfare, will actually hinder an industry that is trying and struggling to survive."