Livestock marts will continue to operate as the entire country moves to level 3 with effect from midnight tonight, it has been confirmed.
However, stricter rules will be imposed, as outlined this evening by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).
In a statement, a DAFM spokesperson told That’s Farming: “On October 5th, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin TD, announced that Level 3 restrictive measures will apply to the whole country, as of 6th October.”
“In response, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has directed that from midnight tonight (6th October) livestock marts adjust their operations accordingly, and submit a revised Covid-19 Level 3 standard operating procedure to their Regional Veterinary Office. “
“The adjustments are similar to restrictions on marts operations that were in place in June. This means that 2-metre social distancing must be enforced at marts, in addition to a range of detailed measures relating to staff, visitors and structures.”
In addition, the spokesperson said, marts must ensure that face coverings are worn by both staff and visitors while on the premises.
“DAFM has informed the livestock marts and the marts representative organisations of this requirement. As of 5th October, 76 of the 86 licenced marts are in operation.”
