"THE C.O.M. NEWS", MARCH 2006 nr. 115

ANNEX nr. 7

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen,

At the request of various member countries, I sent them the text of the Vergy Order, so as to allow them to keep European birds bred in captivity.
I sent all countries the new Regulation 1332/2005/CE from the European Commission, modifying Regulation 338/97/CE from the Council of Europe relating to the protection of flora and fauna by regulation of trade in these species.
In addition, I have sent member countries the principal changes of the CITES appendices, following the Conference of Signatories to CITES held in Bangkok in October last year.

A large part of my job over the past year has been taken up with observing and following the measures taken in the fight against bird flu.
This has been most regrettable for our hobby, which has been the greatest loser, particularly with the cancellation of the Word Show in Zutphen.

My self-imposed task for the coming year – in liaison with the relevant EU authorities – is to seek a possible solution so as to give a real chance of success to the organisation of future World Championships.

Thus, the support of the C.O.M. Board and of member countries will be essential to future bird shows organisers.

Thank for your attention.

Gaston Van Limbergen
C.O.M.P.E. Member in charge