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In response to confirmation of an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 Avian Flu at a poultry farm in Suffolk, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has taken precautionary measures to minimise any risk to Northern Ireland.

On the basis of the information available, DARD has decided that at this time it is not necessary to require the housing of birds in Northern Ireland and it is not necessary to cancel bird gatherings in Northern Ireland.  This means that bird gatherings continue to be permitted in Northern Ireland, including fairs, markets, shows, exhibitions and pigeon races.  However, DARD has decided to impose a precautionary ban on the movement of birds from Great Britain to attend bird gatherings in Northern Ireland.

Parallel precautionary action is being taken today by the Department of Agriculture and Food in Dublin also, so that together we can minimise the risk to the island of Ireland from that route.   

To minimise the disease risk to poultry in Northern Ireland, the department has put some trade restrictions in place.   All existing general licences currently relating to the importation of poultry, poultry products including meat and table eggs and captive birds are hereby revoked.

New specific and general licensing arrangements are in place effective from Monday 5 February.  Any prospective importer wishing to import from any part of Great Britain should contact DARD Trade Section at 028 9052 4664 before import.

DARD is continuing its programme of surveillance of wild birds in Northern Ireland.  To date, no highly pathogenic Avian Flu virus has been isolated here.

DARD has an Avian Flu contingency plan in place which would be invoked in the event of an outbreak here.  DARD will keep the situation closely under review in conjunction with stakeholders.  We will also continue to work closely with Defra and the Department of Agriculture and Food in Dublin.

Speaking today, the Chief Veterinary Officer, Bert Houston reminded all Northern Ireland bird keepers: “Whilst it is not necessary to require the housing of birds in Northern Ireland at this stage, we will keep this position under review.

“Meanwhile, all bird keepers should feed and water their birds under cover in order to minimise the risk of contact with wild birds and anyone keeping birds outdoors must have a clear plan for housing or separating their birds in the event of a heightened risk to Northern Ireland.”

Emphasising the importance of good biosecurity, Mr Houston said:  “It is important that bird keepers remain vigilant for signs of disease and observe high levels of bio-security, so that together we can keep the risk to a minimum.  Keepers should contact their Private Veterinary Practitioner if they detect signs of disease.”