Northern Ireland to lift avian influenza housing measures

In a significant development for poultry farmers and bird keepers across Northern Ireland, DAERA Minister Andrew Muir has confirmed that compulsory housing measures for poultry and captive birds will be lifted from 12:00 noon on Saturday, 10 May 2025.

The decision, which aligns with a simultaneous move by the Republic of Ireland, marks a cautious step towards easing restrictions introduced to combat the spread of avian influenza (bird flu).

The housing order, enforced since 17 February 2025, was a cornerstone of efforts to protect flocks from the highly contagious disease. It required all poultry and captive birds to be kept indoors to minimise contact with wild birds, which can carry the virus.

The measure has been credited with significantly reducing the spread of avian influenza, with the last confirmed case in Northern Ireland reported in late February 2025.

Minister Muir welcomed the progress made in controlling the disease, acknowledging the dedication of poultry keepers.

“This will be welcome news for poultry keepers across Northern Ireland who have put great effort into keeping their flocks safe,” he said. “The last confirmed case in poultry here was in late February and I want to thank the engagement and cooperation from those poultry farmers who have suffered an incursion of disease this year.”

However, the Minister stressed that vigilance remains essential.

“With the relaxation of housing requirements my message remains the same to all bird keepers – whether they have just a few birds or thousands – that they must continue to do their bit to maintain strict biosecurity measures on premises so that we do not lose the progress that we have made,” Muir added.

Preparing for the Transition

With the housing order set to be lifted, DAERA is urging all flock keepers, including backyard and hobbyist bird keepers, to use the coming week to prepare their ranges for birds to be let outside safely.

Detailed guidance on the necessary steps is available on the DAERA website, covering biosecurity and welfare considerations to ensure a smooth transition.

Northern Ireland’s Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher, explained that the decision to lift the housing measures was based on a thorough assessment of the current risk.

“The risk of an AI incursion in Northern Ireland has been kept under close review by the Department,” Dooher said.

“These reviews have considered all the available evidence and have included ongoing and recent engagement with both stakeholders and colleagues in the Republic of Ireland, to determine the most appropriate time to reduce the current protective measures in place.”

The coordinated approach with the Republic of Ireland underscores the importance of cross-border collaboration in managing avian influenza, which poses a significant threat to poultry industries on both sides of the border.

Ongoing Restrictions and Biosecurity

While the lifting of the housing order is a positive step, certain restrictions remain in place under the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ), which continues to impose a legal obligation on all bird keepers in Northern Ireland to adhere to strict biosecurity protocols.

Notably, the ban on gatherings of galliforme birds (such as pheasants, partridges, quail, chickens, turkeys, and guinea fowl) and anseriforme birds (including ducks, geese, and swans) will remain in force to mitigate the risk of disease transmission.

Biosecurity measures, such as regular cleaning and disinfection of equipment, limiting access to poultry areas, and monitoring for signs of illness, are critical to preventing future outbreaks. DAERA has emphasised that these measures apply to all bird keepers, regardless of the size of their flock, to safeguard Northern Ireland’s poultry industry and maintain the progress achieved in controlling avian influenza.

Looking Ahead

The lifting of the housing order is a milestone in Northern Ireland’s response to avian influenza, reflecting the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between government, industry stakeholders, and poultry keepers. However, the ongoing presence of the virus in wild bird populations means that the risk of future outbreaks cannot be ruled out.

As bird keepers prepare to allow their flocks outdoors, the focus on biosecurity will be paramount to ensuring that Northern Ireland remains resilient against this persistent threat.

For further information and guidance, bird keepers are encouraged to visit the DAERA website at www.daera-ni.gov.uk.