This is a subscriber-only article
Ireland’s marts are to reopen from 8 June, at the earliest, under phase two of the Government’s road map for reopening the country.
Marts can reopen “where social distancing can be maintained”, the road map says. The reopening of marts on that date will be subject to how the country is dealing with the virus.
Marts had been waiting anxiously for news that they could reopen on a limited basis after 5 May and mart inspections took place this week. However, this will not be the case according to the roadmap.
Constructive talks
As reported earlier this week by the Irish Farmers Journal, mart representative bodies and the Department of Agriculture held “constructive” talks this week, with Ray Doyle of ICOS saying strict protocols are ready, once approval is granted.
Also under phase two, small retail outlets with a small number of staff could reopen, on the basis that the retailer can control the number of individuals that staff and customers interact with at any one time.
Stages
The plan sets out five stages for unlocking coronavirus restrictions, at three-week intervals. The current restrictions are to continue for two more weeks until 18 May and the first phase will begin from that date.
An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar announced the road map on Friday evening.
“We have a plan to ease restrictions from 18 May, but, before that, we need two more weeks of tight restrictions to weaken the virus further. So it doesn't have the strength to make a comeback.
“From that day [18 May], outdoor work like construction and landscaping will resume.
"Some retail outlets like garden centres, hardware stores and repair shops will reopen, and some outdoor sporting and fitness activities and small groups will be allowed,” he said.
SHARING OPTIONS: