Monday, April 12, 2004 EU eases ban against U.S., Canadian poultry The Associated Press BRUSSELS, Belgium -- The European Union on March 30 lifted a ban on most U.S. and Canadian poultry imports, but extended restrictions affecting Texas and parts of British Columbia due to continued concerns over bird flu. In February, the 15-nation EU joined several other importers in banning live birds, eggs, fresh meat and meat products from the U.S. following the outbreak of virulent avian influenza in south-central Texas. It imposed the same restrictions on Canada after another outbreak was reported in British Columbia. In light of actions taken in both countries to control the spread of the disease, an EU expert committee decided to scale back the restrictions to directly affected areas. The restrictions on Texas will remain until Aug. 23 and in British Columbia until Oct. 1, although in both cases it may be reviewed earlier as the situation develops. Originally published Monday, April 12, 2004