#PODCAST Avian Flu: Agriculture Minister allows the importation of poultry and eggs to ensure sufficient festive season stocks #sabcnews

By Newsbreak Producer Tashlan Naidoo - The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development says the outbreak of avian influenza is contained. The country has been dealing with the disease for the past few months, that has affected poultry in all provinces, except for the Northern Cape. The South African Poultry Association (SAPA) says in an effort to stamp out the disease, seven-point-five million chickens have been culled so far. As a result of the flu, consumers are complaining that the prices of chicken and eggs have increased. In response to this, Agriculture Minister, Thoko Didiza says she has decided to allow the importation of eggs and poultry meat to ensure sufficient stocks for the holiday season. Department spokesperson, Reggie Ngcobo says the importation process is being expedited...