The National Sheep Breeders Association of Ireland (NSBA) has taken the decision to cancel its 2020 NSBA Championships, which were scheduled to take place on May 23rd in Kilkenny.
This action is being taken due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, according to a spokesperson.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the NSBA said: “It is with regret and heartfelt disappointment that following discussions it has been decided that the most prudent course of action amidst this Covid-19 crisis is to cancel our 2020 NSBA Championships which were scheduled to be held on Saturday 23rd May in Kilkenny.”
“As we all find ourselves in an unprecedented period that has never been experienced before we have to adhere to the current guidelines that have been issued for events and mass gatherings.”
“Health and safety will also be our top priority, so with this in mind, we know that this is the best decision for all.” the statement added.
No other date in place
This year’s championship was going to be the end of the competition’s association with the Hub in Kilkenny, which is embarking on a new business plan for the future.
With a lot of uncertainty surrounding the current pandemic, the NSBA does not have any other date in place for the competition to take place, but are still hopeful that an opportunity may arise.
“It is with a degree of optimism that we, as a committee, wish to assure sponsors, breeders, breed societies and the wider farming community that should the opportunity present itself, we will do all in our power to provide a suitable venue to showcase what our industry has to offer in 2020.”
“However, should the inevitable happen for this year, we will be back in 2021 with a new venue and championships to continue our initial plan ‘to establish an annual event to showcase the best of what our sheep Industry has to offer in Ireland’.”
“In the meanwhile, we want you all to stay safe, adhere to the recommendations and best advice from the HSE sources to get through this Covid-19 crisis together.”
“It is important to look after the most vulnerable amongst us especially during this time, even when we can’t visit just pick up the phone to stay in contact,” the statement concluded.
Queries
The NSBA has said that if anyone wishes to contact them with a query in relation to the event, they can do so via email to [email protected].
Image source: National Sheep Breeders Association of Ireland Facebook
