IFA president, Tim Cullinan said that farmers and everybody involved in the sector need to fully observe all HSE protocols and do everything they can to minimise risk, so that processors, co-op stores and marts keep operating.
“It is particularly important that farmers attending marts follow all the guidelines strictly,” he said.
“I want to thank the staff in the co-op stores, marts and the processing sector, as well as hauliers, and others that are working hard to keep the food supply chain moving,” he added.
Cullinan said it is important that the EU has recognised the importance of keeping essential goods such as food supplies, including livestock, moving across Europe,” he said.
“Farmers empathise with other small businesses in our community experiencing business closures and job losses.”
“We are fortunate that we can keep our sector operating and we must follow all guidelines fully,” he said.
Measures
He once again called on members of the public to stay away from farms and for those who have business on farms to only visit by appointment.
“It is also important that farmers keep in touch via phone with their neighbours who might be farming on their own.”
“We must try and avoid those who are socially isolating feeling isolated,” Cullinan concluded.
Any farmer that requires assistance is advised to contact their local IFA office or his local IFA branch or county chair.
