Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 December 2020
670. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if compensation will be provided to poultry farmers affected by avian influenza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43343/20]
View answerThe Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 provides that compensation to owners of animals may be payable if a cull of those animals is directed by my Department in the event of an outbreak in that herd or flock of certain diseases, including Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
Compensation may relate to the animal that is culled, or to an animal product, animal feed or similar item that is desposed of in relation to the outbreak. The compensation may not exceed the open market value of the animal or item. In 2017, my Department engaged a firm with specialised knowledge of the poultry industry to develop valuation tables relating to the most common species and types of poultry in Ireland. These formulas are to be used in determining compensation payable in the case of an outbreak of poultry disease that necessitates a direction by the Minister to cull. These valuation tables are updated on a six-monthly basis.
My Department continues to closely monitor the situation and maintains close contact with stakeholders on the matter. My priority is working proactivately with the sector to ensure that commercial flocks are protected.
