Food import dependency · Farming, harvest & inputs · 21 October 2026
DAERA urges bird keepers to boost biosecurity before winter
Northern Ireland Executive has announced a call for all bird keepers to review biosecurity measures ahead of winter. The department cited recent avian influenza cases in Great Britain as a reason for immediate action. Bird keepers are advised to use DAERA’s Biosecurity Checklist and Guidance.
Northern Ireland Executive has urged all bird keepers, including commercial farmers and backyard flock owners, to review and strengthen biosecurity measures before the winter period. The department issued this guidance in light of recent avian influenza detections in Great Britain. Chief Veterinary Officer for Northern Ireland Brian Dooher said: "Do not wait for the risk to increase before taking action."
The risk is heightened by the movement of migratory wild waterfowl, such as ducks and geese. HPAI H5N5 was confirmed in Scotland in early October, and HPAI H5N1 was confirmed in commercial poultry in England on 19 October. These figures were published with the announcement on 20 October 2026.
Practical steps outlined include keeping bird areas clean, disinfecting footwear, and enclosing feed and water. Bird keepers are also advised to fence outdoor areas to limit access to wild waterfowl. Under the rules, bird keepers, except those keeping pet birds exclusively indoors, are legally required to register their birds.
The Public Health Agency advises that the risk of avian influenza to the general public's health is very low. The guidance encourages monitoring of flocks and minimising contact with wild birds.
Written by StreetOwl from Northern Ireland Executive’s own announcement. It was drafted by StreetOwl’s own model, every figure and quotation was checked by code against the announcement, and it was read and approved by Michael Rossi before it went up. It says what was announced, not what anyone should do about it.
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