Animal Diseases

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 26 July 2022

Tuesday, 26 July 2022

Questions (828)

Jennifer Whitmore

Question:

828. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the measures that are being put in place to safeguard wild bird populations against the risk of avian flu outbreak; if he will develop a surveillance and testing programme as a precautionary tool; if he will put in place measures to stop the unnecessary disturbance of wild birds that may be affected by the virus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41788/22]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage

Over the past number of months, the situation is being monitored closely and any suspected cases sent for testing. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of my Department has also been liaising with counterparts in the UK, and has been briefed on outbreaks there and measures being implemented.

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has responsibly for avian influenza (AI) testing in Ireland. NPWS is one of a number of key players involved in any response to an outbreak of AI in seabirds in Ireland. NPWS is already providing expert advice to DAFM in relation to AI and cases in wild birds.

For visitors to seabird colonies over the coming weeks, NPWS has urged members of the public to keep their distance to avoid disturbing breeding seabirds and, in particular, to avoid coming into close contact with any dead/injured seabird.

Suspected AI cases should be notified to the DAFM via the Avian Check App or alternatively through the Avian Influenza Helpline Number [phone] or 1850 2000456 (outside of normal office hours).