01/02/2017 (Agence Europe) – Of the total €150 million budget approved for veterinary programmes in 2017 (see EUROPE 11715), just over €2 million will go to surveillance against avian influenza (bird flu). A separate budget of €20 million has been allocated by the Commission for emergency measures, including against bird flu. This sum is to cover the EU contribution to all emergency measures in animal health (not only bird flu) and also plant health. A source has indicated that the Commission is currently collecting the financial forecasts of the member states before proposing individual funding for each of the EU countries affected by bird flu. (LC)