Protecting Ireland's Christmas turkeys from the threat of bird flu

'The last couple of years it’s becoming more prominent around Christmas time'

Denise and Sean Healy with turkeys, all sizes, at Healy's Free Range Turkeys, Ballinaglough, Carrignavar, Co. Cork. Picture: Eddie O'Hare

Consumer trends and demands change yearly, but the love for the staple turkey dinner on Christmas Day remains strong in Ireland.

Denise Healy, who is based in Carrignavar in Co Cork, will supply 1,000 turkeys for households to enjoy this Christmas — but the preparation from her side starts well in advance of the festive season.