The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) in force across Northern Ireland and the ban on poultry gatherings will be lifted on Friday (May 15).
The measures, imposing a range of compulsory biosecurity measures on poultry flocks, were introduced on November 1, 2025.
The aim of the AIPZ was to address the risk posed by avian influenza to the poultry sector and was a tool in protecting flocks across Northern Ireland from the disease which was circulating in wild birds.
The removal of the restrictions follows the lifting of the avian housing order in Northern Ireland last week.
Lifting of bird flu measures
Making the announcement today (Thursday, May 14), Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir thanked the poultry sector for its role in protecting the industry.
Minister Muir said: “Thanks to the determined efforts from the poultry sector in Northern Ireland to protect their flocks and minimise the impact of disease, we are now in a position to lift the AIPZ and reduce all mandatory restrictions placed on bird keepers.
“I am sure this will be welcome news for the sector which contributes greatly to our economy and wider society.”
Remain vigilant
Although all mandatory restrictions have now been lifted, the biosecurity requirements set out for the AIPZ should still be considered good practice, Minister Muir said.
“We are urging all bird keepers, whether they have a few birds or thousands, to adhere to the guidance as much as is practically possible,” he said.
“I would also encourage all poultry and captive bird keepers to remain vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and seek immediate advice from their vet if they have any concerns.”
All poultry and bird gatherings will be permitted from May 15, 2026, provided organisers comply with the provisions of the updated general licence for bird gatherings available on the DAERA website.
Bird keepers can help prevent avian flu and other diseases by maintaining high levels of biosecurity on their premises, DAERA has advised.