The full depopulation of approximately 23,000 birds at a commercial poultry premises outside Omagh began on Tuesday as a result of a suspect case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
Briefing MLAs in the Stormont chamber on Tuesday, Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said a veterinary investigation at the site was instigated last Friday at the broiler breeder unit after a number of mortalities among birds. Preliminary results from AFBI have indicated the presence of HPAI H5N1.
A 3km and 10km control zone were put around the premises on Sunday. It is the first suspected case of HPAI in a commercial poultry premises in NI since the last confirmed case on 24 February 2025.
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In his statement at Stormont on Tuesday, Minister Muir said “continued vigilance is paramount,” adding it was essential that private vets and birdkeepers report any bird flu symptoms to DAERA, while also maintaining high biosecurity standards.
He said the Omagh farm did have “excellent biosecurity” but as we move into winter months it is likely there will be more outbreaks. As a result, it may be necessary to issue a housing order. “I will be advised by officials in that regard,” he said.
He also confirmed that the department will compensate the Omagh flock owner for the birds that are culled and cover the cost of initial disinfection.
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The full depopulation of approximately 23,000 birds at a commercial poultry premises outside Omagh began on Tuesday as a result of a suspect case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
Briefing MLAs in the Stormont chamber on Tuesday, Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said a veterinary investigation at the site was instigated last Friday at the broiler breeder unit after a number of mortalities among birds. Preliminary results from AFBI have indicated the presence of HPAI H5N1.
A 3km and 10km control zone were put around the premises on Sunday. It is the first suspected case of HPAI in a commercial poultry premises in NI since the last confirmed case on 24 February 2025.
In his statement at Stormont on Tuesday, Minister Muir said “continued vigilance is paramount,” adding it was essential that private vets and birdkeepers report any bird flu symptoms to DAERA, while also maintaining high biosecurity standards.
He said the Omagh farm did have “excellent biosecurity” but as we move into winter months it is likely there will be more outbreaks. As a result, it may be necessary to issue a housing order. “I will be advised by officials in that regard,” he said.
He also confirmed that the department will compensate the Omagh flock owner for the birds that are culled and cover the cost of initial disinfection.
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