Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)

I confirm it is very possible that the Deputy will be able to eat turkey on Christmas Day. I very much hope that will be the case. We all know how important that is. I do not jest. This is important to our turkey farmers. I have huge sympathy for the four flocks that have been impacted. It is a devastating blow to an individual flock owner. On the broader scale, it is important to reiterate to the public that it is safe to eat properly cooked poultry and egg products. The measures being taken are to stop the spread. I commend the four flock owners because their actions and those of the affected owners in the surveillance zones and restriction zones are for the greater good of the country so we can get back to disease-free status as soon as possible. We in the higher-risk period and there is no doubt about that. It starts in November with migratory birds coming in. This has been a bad start to what is a high-risk period that will run until approximately next April. Through the enhanced mandatory biosecurity measures, the implementation of the housing order, which helps, and the strong vigilance of our industry and flock owners, in close consultation with my regional veterinary officers, we can stay on top of this so fewer people are impacted into the future.

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