AHPD-DSAE-2007-8-1
As of July 1, 2007, importation of captive birds into the European Union from approved breeding establishments may recommence. The relevant legislation is Commission Regulation (EC) 318/2007.
The term captive bird shall apply to all avian species with the exception of:
- fowls, turkeys, guinea fowl, ducks, geese, quails, pigeons, pheasants, partridge, and ratites reared or kept in captivity for breeding, the production of meat or eggs for consumption, or for re-stocking supplies of game
- birds imported for conservation programmes approved by the competent authority in the Member State of destination
- pet animals accompanying their owner as defined in 92/65/EEC
- birds intended for zoos, circuses, amusement parks or experiments
- birds destined for bodies approved according to Article 13 of 92/65/EEC
- racing pigeons which are introduced to the territory of the European Union from a neighbouring third country where they are normally resident and then immediately released with the expectation that they will fly back to that country
- birds imported from Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Norway, San Marino, Switzerland and the Vatican City State.
Captive birds may only be exported from breeding establishments approved by the competent authority of the exporting country and published in relevant EU documentation.
Where an existing breeding establishment is interested in export to the EU, Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) district office staff must inspect the establishment to ensure that it complies with the standards set out in Annex II of the directive. This approval must be forwarded to the Area Office Export Specialist for review and recommendation. Once signed off by the area office, the inspection should be forwarded to Dr. M. Homewood for final approval.
Once approved, an approval number (unique) will be assigned by headquarters. As with other approval numbers, a listing of the approved establishments will be maintained on the O drive (intended for internal use).
Headquarters will advise Brussels of this information who will in turn publish it officially in order that all border inspection points are aware of the approval.
No exports may take place prior to this publication.
From previous experience with other commodities, we know that there may be a significant delay between CFIA approval and publication in the EU. Please advise clients of this policy.
The conditions for premises approval are set out in Annex II of 318/2007 as is the model health certificate.