New restrictions in bid to combat bird flu spread

Importers across Ireland are facing fresh restrictions as officials battle to prevent the spread of the deadly bird flu virus.

They will have to apply for fresh licences to bring in poultry, eggs and captive birds from the rest of the UK. There is also a ban on transporting live birds from the UK to Ireland for events like pigeon racing.

Millions of chickens north and south of the border risk infection if last week’s outbreak at a Suffolk turkey farm spreads.

Northern Ireland Chief Veterinary Officer Bert Houston said: “It is important that bird keepers remain vigilant for signs of disease and observe high levels of bio-security so that together we can keep the risk to a minimum.”

Events like pigeon races will still be allowed but will not feature birds from Britain.

The precautionary step was also taken in the Irish Republic.

Almost 160,000 turkeys have been culled at the Bernard Matthews site in Suffolk. Strict controls are in place around the area where the birds are being gassed.

The Department for Agriculture and Rural Development said there was no risk to public health if food is properly cooked but there are concerns poultry sales will be affected.