Friday, February 6, 2009

Two men will be prosecuted for unauthorised keeping of poultry

Press Releases

Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) staff inspected 73 villages in Hong Kong today (February 6) and found one live chicken was illegally kept by a man in Ki Lun Tsuen, San Tin. Another man was found to have illegally kept five pigeons in Fuk Hang Tsuen, Tuen Man.

They will be prosecuted under the Public Health (Animals and Birds) Ordinance for unauthorised keeping of poultry.

During the inspections, five live chickens in Cheung Po Tsuen, Kam Tin and two live chickens in Shui Tsiu San Tsuen, Shap Pat Heung were found unattended. After taking samples for testing, AFCD has disposed of all the poultry seized today.

The spokesman said a ban on backyard poultry has been in force since 2006. Unauthorised keeping of five kinds of poultry -chickens, ducks, geese, pigeons or quails – is an offence with a maximum fine of $50,000. Repeat offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $100,000.

"The public can call 1823 Call Centre for follow up if they come across suspicious sick or dead birds, including carcasses of wild birds and poultry," the spokesman said.

Members of the public are reminded to observe good personal hygiene. They should avoid personal contact with wild birds and live poultry and their droppings. They should clean their hands thoroughly after coming into contact with them. Poultry and eggs should be thoroughly cooked before consumption.

Ends/Friday, February 6, 2009
Issued at HKT 20:17

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