FROM PETER BRYANT

[Guest CS]

AI – the latest

Well the H5N1 outbreak came rather like a bolt out of the blue.  I took a call from DEFRA on Friday evening about 1015 pm to advise that it was definitely H5 and another at 6.30 pm on Saturday to advise that all bird gatherings were banned until further notice.  On both occasions I popped into the office to send the e mail round robin.  (Regretfully I have been unable to access the RPRA website due to technical problems).  I think this shows that we have got a good working relationship with DEFRA that ensures that they do contact me out of hours.  Anyway the outcome as I write this on Tuesday morning is that there is still no positive confirmation where the disease has come from and DEFRA is not yet ruling out that a wild bird was the root cause. I have discussed several issues with DEFRA and can advise that:

1.                  All gatherings, that is, sales, shows, racing and training with pigeons from more than one source are currently prohibited.  Sales of pigeons from one source i.e. one loft can still go ahead as can training from individual lofts.  Strict biosecurity measures, particularly with regards to water supply and contact with wild birds, should be implemented.

2.                  Transportation by Amtrak can continue at the present time.

3.                  There is no restriction on flying out except in the restricted area.

Fanciers within the restricted area in Norfolk/Suffolk do have stricter conditions to follow.  No movements except under licence and no flying out or shows etc.  These measures are brought under the Preventive Measures (England) Regulations 2006

With regards to purchases from Lier Market there are no specific restrictions and anyone purchasing and importing birds from there, or any other EU country for that matter, need to follow the current import regulations i.e. veterinary health certificate etc.  Those fanciers living within the restricted area in Suffolk will need to check with the local DEFRA Area Health Office as to the specifics there.

The timing of this outbreak is a little ironic as I was expecting a decision from DEFRA on continental racing.  This will now be placed on the back burner for a week or so.  PLEASE don’t panic into thinking that this AI outbreak will scupper our chances of continental racing.  Obviously a lot will depend on what transpires over the coming weeks but one outbreak does not necessarily mean no racing.  The outbreak in Scotland last year was contained and we achieved both national and continental racing.  

Peter Bryant