Changes to the general licensing for pigeon racing

A ban on pigeon racing from some areas of France to Northern Ireland is to be lifted during June and July.

A temporary EU-wide ban on bird gatherings was introduced in 2005 as a precautionary measure against the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza. The lifting of the restrictions will permit pigeon racing back to Northern Ireland, under general licence from specified areas of Northern France between 1 June 2007 and 31 July 2007.

After the ban was brought in, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) introduced a general licence system, which allows bird gatherings to go ahead under the conditions of a DARD licence, including pigeon racing from within the British Isles.

Following a further risk assessment, it is now considered appropriate to allow pigeon racing back to Northern Ireland from the French administrative divisions of Bretagne, Pays de la Loire and Basse Normandie during the period 1 June 2007 to 31 July 2007.

Further details can be found on the DARD website . Event organisers will have to advise their local Divisional Veterinary Office at least three working days in advance that the event is taking place and observe biosecurity measures.

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 and other gatherings have been banned except under licence.
2. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, Tel: 028 9052 4619.