Northern Ireland Poultry Health Assurance Scheme (NIPHAS)

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 NI or export to Third Countries that require compliance with European Council Directive 2009/158 then you will need to be a member of the NI Poultry Health Scheme. 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 the NI Poultry Health Scheme

To join the NI Poultry Health Scheme you must complete an application form (see link below) 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 Veterinary Officer (VO) from the Department and this inspection will establish whether your premises and its management procedures meet the requirements of Directive 2009/158.

The Veterinary Officer inspecting your premises will discuss with you how the Directive 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:

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