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New bird registration rules soon to come into force
“This new requirement will allow us to communicate with bird keepers effectively, which is vital in helping us to manage disease outbreaks such as bird flu” – Huw Irranca-Davies.
Keepers of small poultry flocks among those who will now have to register.

New rules requiring bird keepers in England and Wales to register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) are set to come into force.

Before the change in the law, only keepers who had 50 or more birds needed to register. From 1 October all keepers of poultry and other captive birds will legally be required to register, regardless of flock size.

Backyard flocks, birds of prey, and pigeons are included in the rules. However, keepers of caged pet birds such as parrots, canaries, and budgerigars do not need to register as long as their birds are kept inside except for short periods such as visits to a veterinary practice.

The new rules are designed to make it easier for APHA to contact bird keepers with updates and guidance if there is an outbreak of a notifiable disease in their area, including any future outbreaks of avian influenza. They are also intended to make disease surveillance activities more effective.

Ele Brown, the UK’s deputy chief veterinary officer, said: “The legal deadline for bird keepers to register with the Animal and Plant Health Agency is now less than one month away. These measures are an important step which will enhance monitoring and understanding of the disease, combatting the spread of avian influenza in Great Britain.

“The registration requirements will support better collaboration between bird keepers and government, with keepers informed of measures to take to protect the health of their birds.

“All poultry, whether a large commercial flock or a few backyard pets, are at risk of infectious diseases. This approach will improve our resilience to future pandemics.”

Huw Irranca-Davies, Wales’ cabinet secretary for rural affairs, added: “This new requirement will allow us to communicate with bird keepers effectively, which is vital in helping us to manage disease outbreaks such as bird flu.

“We encourage all keepers in Wales to register their birds ahead of the legal deadline on 1st October.”

Image © Welsh government

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BEVA gives RVNs right to vote

News Story 1
 The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) is to allow its registered veterinary nurse (RVN) members the right to vote.

RVN members will now be able to take part in key decision-making processes and stand for BEVA council.

Marie Rippingale, chair of BEVA's Nurse Committee, said: "I am very proud to be a part of BEVA.

"This change will help to empower nurses to speak up and contribute, but more importantly, it will give them an opportunity to collaborate with other members of the equine veterinary profession to bring about change that is positive for all." 

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Northern Ireland chief vet warns of bluetongue risk

Following the detection of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in England, Northern Ireland's chief veterinary officer has urged farmers to remain vigilant and source animals responsibly.

Brian Dooher said: "This confirmation in England is a stark reminder of the threat bluetongue presents to Northern Ireland.Whilst this finding in Norfolk is disappointing it is not unexpected giving the rising level of disease across several countries in Europe. Bluetongue does not affect human health or food safety, however an incursion to Northern Ireland would have a significant impact on livestock and the rural economy.

"I would like to remind all farmers of the importance of sourcing animals responsibly and ask that they maintain vigilance for signs of the disease reporting any suspicions to DAERA immediately."

Suspected cases of BTV-3 in Northern Ireland should be reported to the DAERA Helpline on 0300 200 7840 or by contacting the local DAERA Direct Veterinary Office.