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All scheduled on-farm inspections due to be carried out in the next two weeks will not be going ahead, the Department of Agriculture has confirmed.
On Tuesday, the Department issued an update on its latest actions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, which included the suspension of all farm visits.
Risk
However, a Department spokesperson told the Irish Farmers Journal that it will carry out an inspection if it becomes aware of a risk to animal welfare, animal health, food safety, environmental damage, illegality or fraud.
“For example, the Department uses satellite imagery to check for illegal burning and it may be necessary to carry out follow-up ground inspections at any time if burning is detected,” the spokesperson said.
TB tests are also continuing, but farmers have the option to defer their test if they are affected by COVID-19, are self-isolating or are part of a vulnerable group.
Payments
The Department added that it may be necessary to resume inspections if their deferral is likely to affect payment deadlines.
SHARING OPTIONS: