Avian flu safety measures

POULTRY markets and other events have been banned as part of further measures to protect Ireland's €360 million poultry industry from the threat posed by avian flu.

Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan said yesterday further provision is being made for the registration with her department of all poultry flockowners and owners of premises where captive birds are kept for sale or for sporting purposes.

The collection of poultry and captive birds for poultry markets, shows, exhibitions and cultural events, other then under licence, is banned with immediate effect but this will be reviewed before December 1.