Biosecurity is Northern Ireland's "greatest weapon" in the fight against Avian Influenza, according to Minister Andrew Muir, following a third suspected case at a commercial poultry premises.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is investigating a suspected case of notifiable Avian Influenza at a commercial premises near Cookstown, Co Tyrone, reported on Sunday, 23 February. Preliminary tests suggest the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Temporary Control Zones (TCZs) have been established around the site, which houses 32,000 birds. All poultry on the premises will be humanely culled.

Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) for Northern Ireland, Brian Dooher, implemented these measures based on clinical signs and preliminary test results from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI). Minister Muir acknowledged the difficult week for the poultry sector, with three confirmed or suspected HPAI cases. "My Department is urgently responding and carrying out robust disease control actions, including the humane culling of affected poultry and cleansing and disinfection," he said. "My Department will continue to work closely with industry stakeholders along with our counterparts in Great Britain and Ireland to stop the spread of this disease. Biosecurity is the greatest weapon we have to fight Avian Influenza. It is crucial that all bird keepers adhere to stringent biosecurity measures to protect their flock and report any suspicious cases immediately. I strongly encourage all bird keepers to familiarise themselves with the guidance provided by my Department."

CVO Brian Dooher added: "Disease control measures have been introduced to limit any potential spread of the disease. Bird keepers, whether commercial or backyard, must maintain high biosecurity standards and fully comply with all requirements that have been implemented to control this devastating disease."

Details of the TCZs and required measures are available on the DAERA website.