The prevention zone was put in place as a result of the recent bird flu outbreaks in the UK. It required bird keepers in Northern Ireland to put in place enhanced biosecurity measures prior to letting their birds outside, in order to reduce the risk of disease.

The ban on shows and gatherings of poultry, waterfowl and game birds will also be lifted on 31 May and a new general licence will come into force reflecting this change.

“This decision has been made following a recent veterinary risk assessment concluding that the risk of avian influenza incursion to poultry and captive birds in Northern Ireland is low,” the chief veterinary officer (CVO), Robert Huey said. “It is a relief to see that the risk of HPAI H5N8 in Northern Ireland has reduced, but this does not mean we should be complacent; the risk of avian influenza remains a real and constant threat. It is essential that bird keepers maintain effective biosecurity all year round, not only when a prevention zone is in place. All bird keepers should consider maintaining enhanced biosecurity practices such as washing boots and equipment with approved disinfectant, implementing effective rodent control, minimising unnecessary visitors and reducing their flock’s contact with wild birds.”

Imports

Specific licensing arrangements relating to the importation of poultry and hatching eggs, ornamental fowl, racing pigeons and captive birds from Britain remain in place.

Poultry and other bird keepers are reminded that anyone who has any poultry or any other captive birds must be registered with the Department. This will ensure they can be contacted quickly in an avian disease outbreak.

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