Consultation on Amendments to The Eggs and Chicks Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 and The Poultrymeat Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2011

Overview

The Eggs and Chicks and Poultrymeat (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2027

Overview

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is seeking views on proposed amendments to The Eggs and Chicks Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 and The Poultrymeat Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2011.

The Eggs and Chicks and Poultrymeat (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2027 will update Northern Ireland legislation to reflect changes to EU marketing standards for eggs, chicks and poultrymeat that apply in Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework. Most of the changes are technical in nature and are intended to update enforcement provisions and legislative references following the introduction of new EU regulations.

The consultation also seeks views on a proposal to permit, subject to DAERA approval, the marking of eggs at the first packing centre to which they are delivered, helping to maintain current industry practices while ensuring traceability requirements are met.

The consultation seeks views on proposals on:

a.           whether to adopt an optional derogation allowing eggs to be marked at the first packing centre to which they are delivered rather than at the production site, subject to DAERA approval;

b.           domestic appeal arrangements relating to use of the derogation;

c.           the installation of solar panels on free-range laying hen ranges;

d.           consequential amendments to fees for poultrymeat water-content checks; and

e.           supporting guidance.

Who may be affected

These proposals are expected to primarily affect:

The Regulations are expected to have minimal impacts on business.

Most operators are already required to comply with the underlying marketing standards because the relevant EU legislation applies directly in Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework. The amendments primarily update domestic enforcement provisions, legislative references, and administrative arrangements to ensure that those standards can continue to be effectively administered and enforced.

Why your views matter

We are keen to hear from people and organisations who may be affected by these proposals, to help us understand the potential impact the Regulations could have on consumers and the Eggs, Chicks and Poultrymeat industry.

We recommend that you read the consultation document on the landing page to get a better understanding of the programme before you submit your response.

What happens next

Once the consultation has closed, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) will review and analyse all responses received.

Stakeholders will be updated on the next steps following consideration of the responses received.