Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)

I thank the Deputy for raising this important issue. First, I extend my sympathy to the flock owner affected in Carlow. We have a 3 km protection zone and a 10 km zone in place, as is procedure. At noon today, I announced the introduction of a housing order in consultation with my colleague in Northern Ireland, the Minister, Mr. Muir. That will take effect in Ireland from next Monday because we need to allow time for our flock owners and commercial operators to put housing in place. We will work across areas. We are aware of the challenges for Fota Island. We want Fota Wildlife Park to be able to continue to care for the animals in that space. I remind the public that we are in a time now of higher risk of avian influenza. The migratory birds have landed here and are carrying it. We need the public to be very aware not to handle sick or dead birds but instead to report them to local and regional veterinary offices. We stand ready to support our poultry sector. The introduction of this poultry order coupled with the biosecurity measures are key measures to protect our poultry stock and captive birds.

See this speech in context