DARD reminder issued to bird gathering organisers

Bird gathering organisers and those attending shows are reminded to be aware of what they need to do to help minimise the threat of Avian Influenza.

Organisers are reminded that all gatherings must take place under licence. Gathering organisers do not have to apply for a specific licence, but must read and comply with a list of general licence conditions.

These conditions are available on the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) website, on request from local Divisional Veterinary Offices or by contacting the DARD helpline Tel: 028 9052 4999.

Gathering organisers must:-

• Ensure that a nominated person is designated as the event organiser
• Ensure that a person is responsible for keeping the required records
• Notify the local Divisional Veterinary Office of the name, address and contact telephone number of the nominated person at least three working days prior to the event taking place
• Notify the local Divisional Veterinary Office of the location, date and time of the event at least three working days prior to the event taking place
• Ensure that all participants from Northern Ireland are registered on the DARD bird register
• Ensure a named veterinary surgeon is contactable for advice and to attend in the event of any suspect disease
• Ensure biosecurity advice is distributed at the event
• Record details of all participants, buyers and sellers and keep these details for at least three months.

These records must include the following information:-

• the DARD flock registration number;
• Full name, address and telephone number of all participants;
• Number and type of birds present;
• Identifying features or individual identification of purchased birds.

In addition, the organisers of pigeon races and training events must also notify the local Divisional Veterinary Office of the following information:-

• The name of the club to which the participants belong;
• The ring numbers of individual birds;
• The release and destination locations.

DARD officials carry out checks and organisers may be asked to provide all the required documentation.

Notes to Editors

1. Under Regulation 6 of the Avian Influenza and Influenza of Avian Origin in Mammals Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007, the collection of birds at fairs, markets, shows, exhibitions, races and other gatherings are allowed to take place under General Licence.
2. All bird keepers in Northern Ireland are legally required to register all birds, with the exception of caged pet birds kept in the owner’s home.
3. Further information is available on the DARD website at www.dardni.gov.uk
4. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, Tel: 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.