The greatest challenge for the sheep sector will materialise if there is disruption to the trade of animals or goods. In this regard, there is little farmers can do outside of continuing to market animals when they are fit for sale.

There has been no dialogue as yet surrounding imminent mart closures which may interrupt selling or buying of animals or possible disruptions to factory processing.

It is also worthwhile keeping on top of paperwork

It is a similar situation with agricultural providers, but a prudent approach is to order inputs such as feed, fertiliser or veterinary products in advance of when they will be required and not let them drop below a certain level.

It is also worthwhile keeping on top of paperwork, with the Basic Payment Scheme application important to complete, given its critical role in underpinning farm income.

The move to online applications means that where an adviser is submitting your application it is not vital to meet face-to-face.

Where there are any significant changes required, it is advisable not to leave your application to the last minute.

The same goes for the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS), with applications submitted online. The closing date for the current tranche is 24 April 2020.