Avian flu, but not the potentially lethal H5N1 strain, has already been detected in migratory wildfowl here in Ireland, wildfowlers and birdwatchers were told yesterday.
The groups, which were being briefed on the current situation by the Department of Agriculture and Food, heard that a number of samples of low pathogenic strains of the flu have been detected in wigeon and mallard.
The samples were found during surveys being carried out as part of a European survey of migratory birds which has been ongoing since 2002.
It said that many wildbirds migrate to Ireland and it listed those coming from countries already infected, but added that as only a small proportion come here, they presented a theoretical risk of introducing H5N1 here.
The groups, which have already been asked by the department to watch out for dead wildfowl, have been advised not to handle live or dead wildbirds unnecessarily and to disinfect their hands after handling them.
The National Association of Regional Game Councils was told there are no plans to restrict hunting activities at present, but this was subject to review.
Wigeon and mallard are both on a provisional list of wildbird species which the authorities believe present a higher risk in relation to avian influenza
The others are the Russian White Fronted Goose, Bean Goose, Gadwal, Northern Pintail, Northern Shoveler, Common Teal, Common Pochard, Tufted Duck, Northern Lapwing, Ruff, Black Headed Gull and Common Gull.