Matt Carthy (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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403. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine further to Parliamentary Question No. 731 of 14 October 2025, if all strains of avian influenza which may result in an order from his Department to cull a flock are covered by a related compensation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62580/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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The Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 provides that compensation to owners of animals may be payable, if a cull of those animals is directed by my Department in the event of an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The compensation may relate to the animal that is culled, or to an animal product, animal feed or similar item that is destroyed in relation to the outbreak. The compensation may not exceed the open market value of the animal or item. HPAI is classified as a Category A animal disease under the EU Animal Health Law.

Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) is not a Category A disease. It is considered a production disease and any decision to cull is a commercial decision taken by the flock owner. In this instance, no compensation is available for the culling of flocks on foot of a flock owner's decision.

Cathy Bennett (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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404. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will report on his response to outbreaks of avian influenza within the State; his related engagements with his counterpart in the North of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62582/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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My Department has moved swiftly to implement disease control measures in line with National and EU legislation, following the confirmation of highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry in Ireland. Restriction zones have been established around the affected premises, with strict movement controls on the movements of poultry and poultry products. Veterinary investigations and surveillance are ongoing.

I introduced mandatory biosecurity measures on 1st November and a housing order on 10th November for all poultry and captive bird owners, with similar measures being undertaken in Northern Ireland. My Department also meets regularly with poultry stakeholders to keep them appraised of this developing situation, with the most recent meeting taking place on 11th November.

My Department is working closely with its counterparts in Northern Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in preparing for, preventing and responding to exotic animal diseases such as highly pathogenic avian influenza. I also engage regularly with my counterpart in Northern Ireland on these important issues.

I would like to remind poultry and captive bird owners of the importance of biosecurity and to remain vigilant of any signs of the disease and to report any suspicion to their local Regional Veterinary Office without delay. Additional information on avian influenza can be found on the Government Website at: www.gov.ie/birdflu.