The Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) which was introduced back in November to help slow the spread of bird flu across Northern Ireland has been lifted.

And, the ban on poultry gatherings will end on June 1, said Minister of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs, Edwin Poots.

“This season of Avian Influenza has been the worst ever outbreak in Northern Ireland and across Great Britain," said Minister Poots.

However, the minister is urging people not to get complacent. While there hasn't been a confirmed case in Northern Ireland since February, the UK's most recent case was confirmed this month on May 19, in the East Midlands.

He is encouraging keepers to thus maintain the high biosecurity standards that were the ethos of the AIPZ.

The AIPZ placed a legal requirement on all bird keepers in Northern Ireland to follow strict biosecurity measures. 

“Although all mandatory restrictions have now been lifted, the biosecurity requirements set out for the AIPZ should still be considered good practice," added Poots.

“I would also encourage all poultry and captive bird keepers to remain vigilant for any signs of disease in their birds and seek immediate advice from their vet if they have any concerns.”