Pigeon shows to continue under lience

Pigeon fanciers will be allowed to show their birds at fairs and markets Defra announced today.

The general EU wide ban on bird fairs came in to effect on 28th October based on the risk of infection at the time. On veterinary advice licensed pigeon shows can now proceed because the risk that these will spread avian influenza is currently assessed as low. The pigeon racing season is due to start in April 2006, although a small number are planned before then. Work is underway to allow these races to take place.

Licences for pigeon shows will be issued provided that certain biosecurity and other conditions can be met. Further details can be found on the Defra website http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/disease/ai/poultrykeepers.htm

Animal Welfare Minister Ben Bradshaw said:

'Our vets have carried out a risk assessment and their advice is that pigeon shows can go ahead under licence. We will take forward this advice and work with stakeholders to ensure any risk is minimised so that these events can go ahead. We will be working closely with stakeholders to ensure that appropriate provisions can be developed to license pigeon racing'