The Pat Kenny Show Bird flu what is the risk posed to the public?
Nov 6, 2025
Martin Heydon, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, tackles the recent bird flu outbreaks affecting turkey flocks in Ireland. He explains the reasoning behind the delayed housing order, emphasizing consultations with Northern Ireland. The discussion highlights stringent biosecurity measures needed for poultry and the careful management of culling infected flocks. Heydon reassures listeners that current food safety standards remain intact and emphasizes that Christmas turkey supplies are not immediately at risk despite the outbreaks.
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Act Quickly On Biosecurity
- Do implement mandatory biosecurity measures immediately if you keep poultry or backyard hens.
- Do house birds where possible and clean/prepare housing before mandatory deadline to avoid legal issues.
Infected Flocks Are Fully Culled
- Infected commercial flocks are culled entirely and don't enter the food chain.
- Authorities impose 3 km protection and 10 km surveillance zones around infected sites.
Never Touch Sick Or Dead Wild Birds
- Do not handle sick or dead wild birds; report them to regional veterinary offices.
- Do rely on proper cooking: poultry and eggs are safe when cooked thoroughly.