Poultry owners and keepers must keep birds indoors and comply with other additional biosecurity measures
Published: 23.02.2021
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On Tuesday, 23 February, the government approved amendments prepared by the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA) to the regulations on the set of biosecurity measures for animal-holding facilities, stipulating that poultry must be kept indoors, preventing contact with wild birds and animals, and that other additional biosecurity measures must be observed at facilities where poultry are kept.
An enclosed space is considered to be a barn or a lightweight structure, with or without foundations, which is sufficiently protected from above and on the sides against wild birds—especially waterfowl—as well as other animals gaining access to the area where poultry are kept, watered and fed. The space may be enclosed with fine mesh and covered with a secure, waterproof roof; it may also be an enclosed shelter.
The mobile sale of poultry and hatching eggs is also prohibited, as is participation in markets, exhibitions, shows and other events involving poultry; the use of water obtained from surface water bodies to water poultry is prohibited, as is the release of poultry into the wild to replenish game-bird populations.
During the period of restrictions established by the government, employees must use workwear or shift clothing and footwear that may be used only at the poultry-holding facility.
The period of restrictions will begin when the regulations enter into force, and its duration will depend on the epidemiological situation in the country, in other EU Member States and in nearby third countries.
Cabinet Regulation “Amendment to Cabinet Regulation No. 291 of 9 June 2015, ‘Regulations on the Set of Biosecurity Measures for Animal-Holding Facilities’” will enter into force on the day following its publication in the official publication “Latvijas Vēstnesis”.
Information prepared by:
public relations specialist
Ministry of Agriculture
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