Poultry farmers in the republic of Ireland will be paid compensation for flocks that have to be culled as a result of low pathogenic avian influenza, the government has announced.
There have been calls for similar compensation to be introduced in the UK. Currently compensation is only paid for culls that take place as a result of high pathogenic avian influenza.
The minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Barry Cowen T.D., announced the once-off financial support scheme for poultry flocks impacted by an outbreak of low pathogenic avian influenza this year. This particular strain of avian influenza (subtype H6N1) has no food safety implications, but does impact on flock productivity.
Minister Cowen said; “I want to acknowledge that the flock owners in question have taken the correct action in depopulating their flocks for the greater good of the sector. In light of the significant economic impact this has had on their business, I am pleased to be able to provide some assistance towards the costs of depopulation which they have incurred.” The affected flock owners will receive details of the scheme including terms and conditions in the coming days.