Objective of the study and general provisions
Article 1
1. The Community shall undertake a technical study aiming at estimating across the European Union the prevalence of Salmonella spp. in flocks of laying hens ( Gallus gallus ) for table egg production at the end of their production period (hereafter the study). 2. The results shall be used to set Community targets as provided for in Article 4 of Regulation (EC) No 2160/2003. 3. The study shall cover a one-year period commencing from 1 October 2004. 4. For the purpose of this decision ‘competent authority’ shall mean the authority or authorities of a Member State as provided for in Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No 2160/2003. 5. For the purpose of paragraph 1, the Commission and the Member States shall cooperate in accordance with Articles 2 to 6.