Easing of Avian Influenza Restrictions
20/04/06

NFU Scotland has welcomed the Scottish Executive’s confirmation of the timetable for the easing of restrictions, put in place following the finding of H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (AI) in a swan in Cellardyke harbour.

Reacting to the announcement by the First Minister, NFUS Vice-president Jim McLaren said:

“We are very pleased that no further cases of AI have been found, despite the greatly increased monitoring of wild birds and domestic birds within the Surveillance and Protection Zones.

“We believe that the planned easing of restrictions in this controlled way is sensible and proportionate to the current situation. It strikes the correct balance between ensuring that birds are protected against AI and allowing them to be housed and moved as normal.

“However, the need for vigilance and high biosecurity continues. The assistance by members of the public in reporting dead wild birds has been very helpful and we would urge them to continue to be watchful.

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