Housing Order for Poultry to End Next Week
A mandatory housing order for poultry and captive birds across Northern Ireland, which has been in effect since 6 November 2025, will be lifted on Tuesday 5 May 2026. Despite this change, a ban on bird gatherings will remain enforced.
Stormont officials have described the housing order as "a vital tool in protecting flocks across the country." The decision to lift the order in Northern Ireland coincides with the Republic of Ireland ending their mandatory housing requirement simultaneously.
The most recent confirmed case of bird flu in poultry or captive birds in Northern Ireland was reported in March 2026.
'An Incursion of Disease'
Announcing the decision, Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir expressed appreciation for poultry keepers' efforts over the past months.
"This will be welcome news for poultry keepers across Northern Ireland who have put great effort into keeping their flocks safe.
"I want to thank the engagement and cooperation from those poultry farmers who have suffered an incursion of disease over the past year."
He emphasized the ongoing need for vigilance among bird keepers.
"My message remains the same to all bird keepers: They must continue to do their bit to maintain strict biosecurity measures on premises so that we do not lose the progress that we have made."
Northern Ireland's Chief Veterinary Officer Brian Dooher stated that the risk of bird flu has been closely monitored.
"These reviews have considered all the available evidence and have included ongoing and recent engagement with stakeholders, and colleagues in the Republic of Ireland, to determine the most appropriate time to reduce the current protective measures in place," he said.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has encouraged all flock keepers, including those with backyard and hobby flocks, to use the coming days to prepare their outdoor ranges so that birds can be allowed outside again.
Understanding Bird Flu
Bird flu is an infectious disease caused by a virus that affects birds and occasionally other animals such as foxes, seals, and otters. Transmission occurs through contaminated feed and water, as well as contact with birds' droppings and saliva.
The predominant strain circulating globally among wild birds is H5N1, a virus type that first emerged in China in the late 1990s. Bird migration patterns have contributed to outbreaks in both wild and domestic bird populations.
While there have been very rare cases of human infection, experts maintain that the current risk to humans remains low.
Despite the lifting of the housing order, a ban on poultry gatherings—including shows, sales, and exhibitions—will continue under the Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ). This zone imposes a legal obligation on all bird keepers in Northern Ireland to adhere to strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
