Farm-related construction that is essential for animal welfare should continue, the Department of Agriculture has advised.

In the construction sector, only health and related projects relevant to the COVID-19 crisis, repair/construction of critical road and utility infrastructure, or delivery of electrical, plumbing, glazing and roofing to businesses and homes on an emergency call-out basis have been deemed essential.

While farm-related construction is not listed, examples of projects the Department would consider critical include finishing the upgrading of pig housing or poultry housing needed to house animals in the near term, work on silage pits for the storage of fodder or calf housing required immediately.

Individual cases

In its latest guidance, the Department said it could not adjudicate on individual cases.

“It is a matter for each company/individual to objectively and fairly assess whether they are involved in providing essential services,” the Department said.

If any farm-related construction project proceeds then all HSE guidelines must be followed and adequate hygiene facilities provided. The minimum number of people necessary should be involved.

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Farm construction critical to animal welfare deemed essential

Work on silage pits for the storage of fodder or calf housing required immediately are examples of projects the Department would consider as critical.