Poultry imports suspended
Following the increasing numbers of outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu) in the UK the issuing of import licences for poultry and hatching eggs has been suspended. The situation is being kept under active review and when the risk has reduced to an acceptable level the suspension will be lifted. Unfortunately however, the situation may continue for some time yet if it follows the pattern of previous year.
Importing poultry and hatching eggs
Poultry and hatching eggs can be* imported into Jersey from the UK, Isle of Man or other Channel Islands using a specific licence. * Issuing of licences is currently suspended.
To import poultry using the specific licence you must:
-
complete an application form
- ensure that the Animal Health and Welfare section of the Department of the Environment receives the form at least 5 working days before the planned import
If you're importing commercial poultry you must comply with the following conditions:
- You must complete the online pre-notification form at least 1 working day prior to scheduled arrival into Jersey
Pre-notification of regulated animal, plant and food goods
In accordance with Council Directive 2005/94/EC if disease has been confirmed no poultry can be imported from a Protection Zone (PZ) of 3 km and Surveillance Zone (SZ) of 10 km
Before leaving the premises of export, the exterior of the vehicle must be free of any visible contamination with mud, slurry, animal faeces, excretion or any other similar matter. The vehicle wheels and wheel arches must be cleaned and disinfected after loading and before leaving the premises with an approved disinfectant. Any crates or boxes must be clean and disinfected prior to loading
Exporters must comply with the welfare laws relating to the exporting country. Birds must be transported in a suitable container, with adequate ventilation and if transported by air, in accordance with International air Transport Association (IATA) standards
After importation, the birds must be kept at the destination declared in the licence and custody of the bird(s) must not be transferred within 21 days after importation
Except when prior written approval has been given by the States Veterinary Officer no movements of any live poultry off the premises is permitted during the 21 days after importation
Good biosecurity should be practiced at all times to protect your birds including isolating new stock. Ensure good hygiene practices are in place so that the risk of disease occurring or spreading is minimised
Other conditions may apply and are included on the licence.
If you want to import poultry from elsewhere in Europe you must contact the Department of the Environment.