Ringside buyers will be permitted at livestock marts under the Government’s latest guidelines.
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue provided confirmation yesterday (Tuesday, December 23rd).
Livestock marts must prevent the congregation of attendees in carparks and entry points.
They will also be required to submit SOPs (standard operating procedures) outlining how they will respond to new regulations, to their RVO (regional veterinary office).
Marts will operate a ‘drop and go’ system for sellers. All present in marts must wear face coverings and maintain a 2-metre distance.
Charlie McConalogue on livestock marts
In a statement, the minister said:
“I am pleased to announce that livestock sales will continue to be a blend of both online and ringside as part of new public health guidelines announced by the government.”
“This blended approach has proved to be an excellent way of trading cattle and sheep with strong throughput coupled with steady prices in recent weeks, while offering a safe environment for those involved.”
“The health, safety and wellbeing of the general public is our top priority at present as we continue to tackle the pandemic. We all have a role to play in keeping each other safe, and this is as important in the mart as anywhere else.”
“I again commend the work of mart managers and farmers for engaging so meaningfully with the public health guidelines over recent months.”
“It has been a challenging period, but I am confident we can get through it together.” he concluded.
