Niamh Smyth (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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795. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will review a report (details supplied); the actions he is taking on the issue to reassure farmers and to combat the problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39837/20]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Ireland is currently in the high risk period (October to April) for the introduction of Avian Influenza (AI) as a result of the migration of wild birds returning to overwinter from areas where AI is widespread. This year a particularly virulent form of the disease, known as Highly Pathogenic AI (HPAI) with subtype H5N8, has been confirmed in several species of wild birds on mainland Europe, the UK and there have been three cases in wild birds in the republic of Ireland.

My Department has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza subtype H5N8 in three wild birds in counties Limerick, Mayo and Monaghan. The case in Limerick involved a peregrine falcon, the case in Mayo involved a curlew and the case in Monaghan involved a cygnet (mute swan). These individual wild bird findings serve as a reminder that the avian influenza virus is currently circulating in the wild bird population in Ireland. This poses a risk to our poultry flocks and industry. The virus can spread from the wild bird population to poultry farms, through direct contact and in particular through faeces from wild birds infected with the virus.

My Department has implemented a comprehensive awareness campaign and advises poultry owners to take increased biosecurity measures to help mitigate the risk of the virus spreading to poultry. This applies to all flocks, irrespective of size. In particular, my Department advises flock owners to feed and water birds inside or under cover where wild birds cannot access the feed or water. Keep poultry separate from wild birds by putting suitable fencing around the outdoor areas they access. Flock owners should remain vigilant for any signs of disease in their flocks, and report any disease suspicion to their nearest Regional Veterinary Office.

In addition, I intend to introduce regulations in relation to biosecurity on farms, and banning gatherings of birds.