The Upper Bann MP said: “Poultry producers throughout the province are extremely anxious about the risks from notifiable highly pathogenic Avian Influenza, more commonly known as bird flu. With recent cases confirmed in Omagh and Pomeroy, and a suspected outbreak under investigation in Lisnaskea, it is obvious that there is a growing threat. DAERA must act without to delay to mitigate the risk.

 “I have spoken to numerous flock owners about their concerns. Fear is heightening across the poultry sector, and farmers agree that DAERA’s temporary control zones are insufficient, falling short of expectations. Robust measures must be implemented immediately to prevent further spread of the disease.

“The poultry industry is of enormous economic and strategic importance to Northern Ireland,” Ms Lockhart said. “The impact of further infections would be devastating for producers, their families, and the wider supply chain. We cannot afford to be complacent in the face of this escalating situation.

“Poultry keepers and commercial producers across Northern Ireland have already taken voluntary steps to strengthen biosecurity measures. However, there is a growing belief within the sector that only a formal housing order can deliver the consistency and level of protection needed at this critical stage.”

The MP has written to the Minister and the chief vet, requesting clarity on the following:

1.    The current assessment of the avian influenza risk across Northern Ireland;

2.    The reasons why a housing order has not yet been introduced; and

3.    Whether the Department is actively considering such an order given recent developments.

“Poultry producers deserve clear guidance, reassurance, and decisive leadership,” stressed the MP. The Department must treat this matter with urgency to safeguard animal health and protect one of Northern Ireland’s most vital agricultural sectors.

“Cases of bird flu are widespread in regions throughout England. The UK’s chief vet, Christine Middlemiss, is already a step ahead, ordering mandatory housing across England from Thursday, 6^th November at 00.01am.

‘There is also a GB-wide Avian Influenza prevention zone in place, requiring commercial flocks, and those with just a few pet or captive birds, to follow strict biosecurity measures.”

Carla Lockhart MP added: “This is not a time for complacency. Everyone needs to be vigilant, and I would urge farmers and poultry fanciers to familiarise themselves with the clinical symptoms of the disease, which include high mortality, lethargy, and respiratory distress.

‘Collectively, we must do everything we can to prevent bird flu spreading in Northern Ireland. Whilst mandatory housing may be deemed extreme, the move has been proven to bring infection rates down.”

Professor Ian Brown, an avian virologist from Pirbright, told delegates at this week’s Egg and Poultry Industry Conference in Newport, that the current strain of H5N1 is one of the deadliest ever encountered.

Bird Flu is soaring across Europe, with the number of early outbreaks reported between August and mid-October 2025, reaching a 10-year high.

Avian Influenza spreads from bird to bird through direct or indirect contact with nasal secretions or droppings, as well as predation. The industry’s biggest threat comes from wild birds.



Ms Lockhart concluded: “I would urge flock owners to follow the guidance and adopt a strict biosecurity regime. Members of the public are also advised to be vigilant and refrain from touching sick or dead birds and their faeces. Surveillance is key to identify and determine areas most at risk. Dead birds, such as gulls, ducks, geese and swans should be reported to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, using its online reporting tool.”