Welsh Government has announced a compulsory housing order for poultry and captive birds from Thursday 13 November. The Deputy First Minister said the decision reflected the 'significantly elevated threat' following a growing number of cases in both kept and wild birds in Wales and across Great Britain.
The move follows considerable lobbying from NFU Cymru to see housing measures introduced.
As a result of the compulsory housing order, the following measures will be in place from 13 November:
- It is a legal requirement for all keepers of 50 or more birds of any species to house them.
- Mandatory housing also applies to flocks of less than 50 birds of any species if eggs or poultry products are sold or given away, due to the increased risk of disease transmission associated with trading or giving away poultry products.
- Additional biosecurity requirements will also be introduced for the gamebird sector, which experienced avian influenza outbreaks last season.
The new compulsory housing measures are being incorporated into the existing Wales Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) introduced in January.
Kept under review
The housing order and AIPZ will be in place until further notice and will be kept under regular review as part of the Welsh Government’s work to monitor and manage the risks of avian influenza, along with the Animal and Plant Health Agency and the other UK administrations.
Responding to the announcement, NFU Cymru Poultry Board Chair, Richard Williams said: “Following extensive lobbying by NFU Cymru over the past couple of weeks, we are pleased that the Deputy First Minister has listened to the industry and made the responsible decision to put in place a housing order for poultry and captive birds.
“The increase of avian influenza cases in Wales has been hugely concerning for the industry and is an indication of the high level of avian influenza circulating in the wild bird population. This housing order will mean better separation between wild and domestic birds thereby helping to protect birds on these units.
“Our thoughts are with those farmers whose flocks have already been impacted and the devastation it has caused to their businesses. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and continue with the high level of biosecurity on Welsh poultry farms to keep disease out."
Increased risk of disease
Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: "We keep measures under active review. Since the AIPZ was introduced at the start of the year, the risk of disease has recently increased further, and Wales is now facing a very high level of avian influenza risk.
"The decision has not been taken lightly, but it is necessary to protect both our bird populations and the livelihoods of poultry keepers across Wales.
"I urge all bird keepers to comply with these requirements and maintain the highest standards of biosecurity. I recognise this will be challenging, but by acting now we can help prevent the spread of this disease and protect our flocks.”
Reporting suspected cases
Avian influenza is a notifiable disease therefore bird keepers should report any suspected cases immediately to APHA on 0300 303 8268.