Minister not for budging on marts’ reopening

AGRICULTURE Minister, Charlie McConalogue, has refused to budge on a relaxation of the mart opening restrictions, despite pressure from IFA President, Tim Cullinan and a Fianna Fáil Minister of State.

In a statement released this week, Minister of State for Disabilities, Anne Rabbitte, said that more consideration needed to be given to the reopening of the marts under the Level-5 COVID restrictions.

She said that over the past couple of weeks many farmers and mart operators had raised their concerns to her over the way that the marts now had to operate.

“We’re facing into somewhat of a perfect storm for farmers. The Level 5 restrictions mixed with the very poor weather and the fodder shortage, means farmers are struggling to manage their herds.

“It’s crucial we reassess the restrictions on marts as it’s one of the most important release valves to ease the pressure at the moment.

“I know online marts have had their successes, but I think there’s scope to allow physical marts to open while simultaneously ensuring public health measures are being followed,” said Minister Rabbitte.

She said that there were ways in which marts could operate safely with a limited number of buyers around the ring at any one time plus an adherence to all the COVID regulations and protocols.

Deputy Rabbitte also pointed out that added precautions could also be put in place such as buyers declaring that they had no contact with any confirmed, suspected or pending COVID cases – while increased temperature monitoring could also be considered.

“I’ll be meeting the Minister for Agriculture in the coming weeks to discuss this and other issues, including the frequency of TB testing, the status of PGI discussions and the 4 movement and 30-month rules for meat factories,” said Anne Rabbitte.

For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.

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