European Communities (Welfare of Laying Hens) Regulations 2002 (S.I. No. 98 of 2002).

These Regulations specify the accommodation and welfare requirements for the rearing and fattening of laying hens. They also lay down rules regarding appropriate diet and inspection of the laying hens to protect their health and welfare. Subject to regulation 11, where an authorized officer is of the opinion that an animal is being reared are in contravention of these Regulations or there is a serious risk to the welfare of an animal, he or she may serve or cause to be served on the owner or person who appears to be in charge, possession or control of the animal a so-called animal welfare notice. An authorized officer may require the owner or person in charge of an animal to obtain veterinary treatment for the animal within a specified time and the person shall comply with the requirement.