Target: Charlie McConalogue, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Dublin, Ireland
Goal: Enforce penalties for anyone who ignores avian-flu biosecurity guidance by handling or transporting sick wild birds, while boosting rapid public reporting and safe response.
A leading Cork rescue center has urged the public not to touch sick or dead wild birds as avian influenza cases in wild populations rise. Authorities advise using official reporting channels so trained teams can respond. Despite these warnings, some individuals still pick up, move, or bring wild birds into clinics, which can increase risk for other animals and people, and undermine containment efforts.
Avian flu remains primarily a wildlife and agricultural threat, yet risky human behavior can spread virus particles on clothing, vehicles, and equipment. Untrained capture or transport also causes avoidable stress and suffering for birds already compromised. Clear guidance exists, including how to report birds and what symptoms warrant concern, but compliance lags without visible enforcement and easy reporting tools.
Stronger deterrence and support can close that gap. Clear penalties for reckless handling, coupled with public information, PPE kits for designated responders, and fast digital reporting, would reduce spillover risks and protect both wildlife and companion animals. This petition calls for firm enforcement against those who flout biosecurity instructions, paired with practical help that makes safe choices simple.
PETITION LETTER:
Minister McConalogue,
We appreciate ongoing guidance on avian influenza in wild birds and the emphasis on public reporting. However, rescue workers and clinicians still encounter cases where people pick up sick or dead wild birds and carry them to clinics or homes. That behavior risks virus spread and further animal suffering.
We respectfully urge you to direct immediate measures that pair deterrence with support. Please establish and publicize penalties for reckless handling of wild birds that contravenes biosecurity guidance, alongside an amnesty pathway that encourages people to step back and report rather than transport. Expand rapid reporting tools, ensure responders have PPE and collection materials, and provide simple, shareable instructions through councils, vets, and rescue groups.
Finally, publish regular situation updates to sustain vigilance, and coordinate targeted outreach in hotspots so residents know exactly what to do when they encounter sick or dead birds. Visible enforcement and clear, practical guidance will protect wildlife, pets, and people while easing pressure on frontline rescuers.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Roee Shpernik
