Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 9 March 2023
389. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which the poultry sector continues to be protected against disease; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12204/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the context of the poultry sector continuing to protect against disease, good biosecurity is the overarching key preventative measure.
With regard to the risk from Avian Influenza, I have introduced Avian Influenza (Bio security Measures) Regulations and Avian Influenza (Precautionary Confinement of Birds) Regulations which remain in place. Wild birds continued to test positive for avian influenza in Ireland in recent weeks confirming that the virus is still circulating in the wild bird population, which remain a risk of spreading the infection to Irish poultry. These regulations will be lifted when appropriate to do so and based on risk assessments.
Implementing the highest levels of biosecurity remains the number one method of preventing and controlling the spread of disease amongst poultry and indeed other farmed animal species. The regulations listed above are supportive methods. My Department urges all poultry owners including backyard flock owners to be vigilant and to implement strict biosecurity on their premises, particularly by ensuring only essential personnel, vehicles and equipment have access to their flocks and minimising contact between poultry and wild birds. Flock-owners should also regularly monitor their birds for signs of disease. If they suspect Avian Influenza, they must report it immediately to their veterinary practitioner or to one of the Department’s Regional Veterinary Offices. The Department have plans in place to control the spread of disease should an outbreak of avian influenza be confirmed in an Irish poultry flock.
Fully funded Targeted Advisory Service on Animal Health schemes are available to provide free biosecurity checks to farmers - this is organised through Animal Health Ireland. My Department has recently launched a biosecurity strategy that seeks to promote enhanced biosecurity on all farms to limit the risk of disease incursions.
