Northern Ireland Poultry Health Assurance Scheme (NIPHAS)

The Scheme has been revised due to the EU Directive 2009/158 being repealed following legislative changes introduced by the EU Animal Health Law (Regulation 2016/429). The updated requirements are listed in Regulation (EU) 2019/2035.

Joining NIPHAS

If you want to:

• Export more than 20 birds or hatching eggs to another European Member State
• Sell birds or eggs to NIPHAS members within Northern Ireland, or
• Export to Third Countries that require compliance with Regulation (EU) 2019/2035,

Then you will need to be a member of NIPHAS.

Please note that you should always consult your local DAERA Direct Office in advance of exporting live poultry or hatching eggs as there may be additional certification and testing requirements.

The NIPHAS handbook provides information on joining the Scheme and the procedures to be followed to ensure yearly accreditation is approved.

How to join NIPHAS

To join NIPHAS you must complete the application form and return it to Trade Section with a plan of the premises and the registration fee.

Arrangements will then be made for an inspection of your premises by a DAERA Veterinarian from the Department and this inspection will establish whether your premises and its management procedures meet the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2019/2035.

The DAERA Veterinarian inspecting your premises will discuss with you how the Regulation requirements apply to your particular circumstances. After the inspection you will be advised of any changes that you may need to make to your premises, or operational procedures, to comply fully with the requirements.

Depending on the species of poultry and other circumstances you may need to test for Salmonella and Mycoplasma before membership can be confirmed.

The following laboratory has been approved by DAERA for testing under the NIPHAS:

Fees

The Northern Ireland Poultry Health Assurance Order (Northern Ireland) 2011 provides a statutory basis for the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to charge fees for membership of NIPHAS.

Current fees payable for Scheme membership are set out in The Northern Ireland Poultry Health Assurance Scheme (Fees) (Amendment) Order (Northern Ireland) 2016.

DAERA is reviewing this legislation in light of the changes outlined above relating to the introduction of the Animal Health Law. In the meantime, members and applicants should continue to pay the fees outlined in The Northern Ireland Poultry Health Assurance Scheme (Fees) (Amendment) Order (Northern Ireland) 2016.

For further information please phone 02877 442141 or email tradeadminpost@daera-ni.gov.uk.

More useful links

• NIPHAS members handbook 
• NIPHAS application form 
• NIPHAS members list