Poultry housing order to be lifted next week 

The decision to now withdraw this requirement is based on a number of parameters that indicate a reducing risk of a bird flu incursion.

Removing the requirement to confine birds means that all poultry and bird owners may allow their birds access to open areas and runs from April 18. 

The legal requirement to house poultry and other birds as a precautionary measure against bird flu will be lifted from April 18.

Legislation requiring the precautionary confinement of birds in Ireland to mitigate the risk of spread of avian influenza to poultry was introduced on November 7, 2022.