Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 December 2021
39. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will ensure that all poultry farmers who cull flocks in response to outbreaks of avian influenza in 2021 and 2022 receive compensation in a timely manner. [60430/21]
View answerThe Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 states that I, as Minister, may pay compensation to owners of animals if a cull of those animals is directed by my Department in the event of an outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.
The compensation may relate to the animal that is culled, or to an animal product, animal feed or similar item that is destroyed in relation to the outbreak. The compensation may not exceed the open market value of the animal or item.
Compensation is payable only to the owner of the animals or items affected. Consequential losses are not compensated for.
In November 2021, my Department developed valuation tables relating to the most common species and types of poultry in Ireland. This work was based on expert advice and input.
These tables will be used to quickly and consistently determine the compensation values and will to be used to determine compensation payable in the case of an outbreak of poultry disease that necessitates a cull. Since 2017, the valuation tables have been updated twice yearly.
In December 2020, there was one outbreak of notifiable Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N8. Three flocks were depopulated on foot of this outbreak – the infected flock and two additional risk flocks as a precautionary measure. Compensation was paid to two of the owners with one outstanding due to a legal case.
In 2021, to date, there are four confirmed cases of the notifiable Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1, of which two have been depopulated and one in progress. My Department will pay any compensation due as quickly as possible.
We continue to closely monitor the situation and maintains close contact with stakeholders on the matter. My priority is working proactively with the sector to ensure that commercial flocks are protected.
It is vital that appropriate biosecurity measures are in place at all times in order to mitigate against an introduction of disease.
