| Author: Peter Bryant | Title: RPRA Avian Flu Update |
| Date: 2005-11-15 18:08:40 | Uploaded by: webmaster |
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An Update to the proceedings with Avian Flu.
Received 15th November 2005 from Peter Byant, General Manager – RPRA.
Dear Ms Reynolds
Further to the meeting at Noble House last week, I was grateful for the opportunity to address the Minister and yourself on the problems affecting the racing pigeon fraternity. I have to say however that I am a little frustrated in the delay over the measure to bring racing pigeons out of the same high risk category as poultry.
As discussed last Thursday the scientific evidence we had produced from Canadian veterinarian Gordon Chalmers was pretty conclusive. I have however today received a further e mail from Dr Chalmers which again substantiates and strengthens the case that racing pigeons pose little threat of carrying AI. Given your public statement on Panorama on Sunday that Britain is a low risk country and that pigeons are also low risk (not medium as your veterinary experts may suggest) then it would seem that DEFRA are rather over reacting to the current threat.
Perhaps I could amplify on the points I made at last week’s meeting.
- The ban on shows and sales per se is causing financial hardship to some in the pigeon racing fraternity. Auctioneers have staff to pay and accrue their income from commission from sales. At the shows many pigeon accessories from lofts to scrapers are sold and the closure of these shows and poor attendance at other meetings means that the companies involved are financially hit and it is hurting. Given that a lot of the pigeon shows are organised by small clubs for their own members the cancellation of such a show would not appear to be much of an inconvenience. However, the charge for the hall hire still has to be made and as you know there is no recompense from Government. But a hundred pounds or so to a small club that is unable to recoup that outlay from show entry fees and trade stand income leaves a big hole in the finances of such clubs.
- We are very bemused as to why other European countries have permitted pigeon shows and sales over the last couple of weeks. Both Kassell in Germany and the Dublin shows have recently taken place with no restriction on showing or selling. I am at a loss to explain to my members why Germany and Ireland appear to permit these shows yet we have a totally different stance in the UK.
- The scientific evidence we have produced would indicate that, far being in the same classification as poultry, pigeons cannot catch or pass on AI.
- I appreciate that it is early days with regard as to what may be current in March onwards but please consult with us before any decision is taken regarding the racing season.
Please be assured that although we would support any measures introduced following an outbreak of HPAI the current measures appear to be rather draconian. We cannot see the logic as to why sales from one holding can go ahead (clearance sales) when pigeons from other single holdings (individual lofts, stud farms and breeding stations) cannot. The DEFRA argument heard so far on this matter is not convincing given the scientific evidence to the contrary.
I look forward to your comments on these points. On the plus side, I do believe that the information flow and advice on your website is excellent and we will of course be pleased to help and advise wherever possible to reach a sensible compromise.
Yours sincerely
Peter Bryant
General Manager
The Royal Pigeon Racing Association
The Reddings
Nr Cheltenham, Glos GL51 6RN
Tel 01452 713529 fax 857119
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