ICOS co-operative marts are continuing to operate under the strict guidelines as issued by the Government last week.
Only buyers and sellers of livestock are permitted to attend the marts and controls are in place regarding ringside attendance.
In a statement on Monday, March 16th, ICOS environment and Livestock executive, Ray Doyle said, “At mart sales today, we are seeing a greatly increased awareness by the public of the enhanced measures required for everyone to successfully reduce the spread of COVID-19.”
“Sellers are dropping off animals and simply calling mart managers at a later time to find out what they made and there are restrictions on the number of people around mart ringsides.”
This, he pointed out, includes moving buyers to the seating areas and social distancing, rather than around the actual ringside itself.
“At this time, social visitors and particularly children or vulnerable people must stay away from the marts until further notice is given.”
Co-operation
“Everyone needs to co-operate with any and all instructions given in mart centres as we all need the marts to continue trading during this busy spring period, but in a safe way and one which will not add to the spread of COVID-19.”
“It’s business, not as usual, but continuing for now and this may change day-to-day, depending on the overall situation and ongoing guidance from the authorities,” Doyle concluded.
