Article 2 Sampling frame

Sampling for the purpose of the survey shall be organised by the Member States and shall be performed from 1 October 2005 on holdings containing at least 5 000 birds. On each selected holding, one flock with broilers of the appropriate age shall be sampled.

However, in countries where the calculated number of flocks to be sampled is higher than the number of holdings available with at least 5 000 birds, in order to achieve the calculated number of flocks, up to four flocks may be sampled on the same holding. Where possible the additional flocks from a single holding shall be from different broiler houses and samples taken in different seasons.

If the number of flocks to be sampled is still not sufficient, progressively smaller holdings may also be selected until at least 154 flocks, where possible, is attained.

If the number of flocks to be sampled is still not sufficient, more than four flocks may be sampled on the same holding, larger holdings being focused on.

For countries where fewer than 80 % of the birds are kept on holdings with more than 5 000 broiler chickens, progressively smaller holdings may initially be selected.

Sampling shall be performed by the competent authority or under its supervision.