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Update
The Confédération paysanne has expressed its anger and concern as in areas at risk for bird flu, free-range breeders have the obligation to lock up poultry.
Jean-Paul Gobin has been a poultry farmer for 35 years. But since the beginning of September, it has been placed in a risk zone in relation to the spread of avian flu. In all, nearly 540 municipalities are concerned. “They can spend the day outside, looking for additional food, grass, insects”, explains the one who refuses to lock up his poultry, yet the rule to be respected. Jean-Paul Gobin advocates animal welfare; no question of locking up your animals, except at night.
The latter is normally required to lock up his 500 ducks in 60m² to avoid contamination. “People trust me. They are happy with the quality. If we change an essential criterion, we break a contract of trust”, protests the breeder. Until now, small farms have benefited from an exemption, they now have the obligation. The Peasant Confederation is worried about it and fears a disappearance of 30% of these farm farms.