The Irish Department of Agriculture has announced new biosecurity measures to mitigate the risk of bird flu following the detection of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in a buzzard in Co Galway. Dr. Eoin Ryan emphasized that these regulations, effective December 6, require flock keepers to implement mandatory biosecurity practices to protect poultry from potential outbreaks. The measures aim to prevent wild birds from accessing areas where captive birds are kept, as Ireland enters a higher risk period for avian flu due to migratory birds and colder temperatures. Public safety remains a priority, with no food safety concerns for poultry consumption.