With marts due back next Monday, farmers need to be realistic regarding what to expect and what can be allowed under the less restrictive but nonetheless still applicable covid protocols.
That's according to the ICOS (Irish Co-operative Society).
Ray Doyle, Livestock & Environmental Services Executive of ICOS says many farmers, especially those who have received vaccines, have been contacting mart managers across the country indicating their intention to attend the mart next week. This is almost at pre-covid levels and possibly due to the sense of security that the ongoing vaccine rollout is creating.
He went on to add that depending on local circumstances, not all marts will allow sellers to attend, and some sheep sales, especially in marts that sell sheep in pens, will be continuing sales as is due to the necessity to maintain social distancing.
Most marts will be operating a restricted ringside at 2 metres distancing, and will be continuing the clearance of the mart yard when the sales commence due to Covid related management requirements as stipulated by DAFM and the public health authorities.
