Northern Ireland to lift poultry housing order as avian flu risk eases

Published on : 29 Apr 2026

The measures will end on Tuesday 5 May

A compulsory housing order for poultry and other captive birds in Northern Ireland is set to be lifted next week, while restrictions on bird gatherings will remain in place.

The measure, introduced on 6 November 2025 as part of efforts to control avian influenza, will end on Tuesday 5 May. Officials at Stormont described the housing requirement as an important safeguard that has helped protect flocks during a sustained period of disease risk.

The move will be mirrored in the Republic of Ireland, where authorities have confirmed that their own housing requirement will be lifted on the same date. The most recent confirmed case of avian influenza in poultry or captive birds in Northern Ireland was recorded in March 2026.

Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said the decision would come as a relief to bird keepers who have worked to maintain high standards of flock protection. He thanked those affected by outbreaks over the past year for their cooperation and resilience.

He emphasised that the responsibility now shifts to maintaining strong on farm biosecurity, urging all keepers to remain vigilant to avoid any setback in disease control.

Northern Ireland’s Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher said the risk posed by avian influenza has been closely monitored throughout, with decisions based on scientific evidence and ongoing discussions with industry stakeholders and counterparts in the Republic of Ireland.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has advised all flock keepers, including those with small or backyard flocks, to use the remaining time before the change comes into effect to prepare outdoor areas for birds returning to range.

In the Republic of Ireland, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon said the reduced risk level now supports lifting the housing requirement, although the ban on bird gatherings will continue. He also acknowledged the efforts made by the poultry sector and bird owners in maintaining disease controls in recent months.