Lifting of social distancing rules at marts welcomed

THE Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, has welcomed the lifting of social distancing rules at livestock marts, following on from the Taoiseach’s statement on Friday evening.

While face masks must continue to be worn at marts for now, all other restrictions relating to Covid-19 and the marts have been lifted.

Minister McConalogue paid tribute to the efforts of mart staff and farmers in keeping marts operational throughout the pandemic.

He stated: “This is a great day for our network of marts across the country. Buyers can now return to the ring without the previous limits on numbers, while online sales can continue as part of a blended approach.

“Mart managers, their staff as well as buyers and sellers of livestock have shown tremendous resilience, agility and resourcefulness during the pandemic in dealing with the challenges of Covid-19 while continuing to trade online and at the ring.

“I’m convinced the efforts of farmers and marts, adhering to the Covid-19 measures, has undoubtedly played a role in minimising and reducing the threat of Covid-19 in our communities while protecting Ireland’s food security.”