Farmers using livestock marts have been urged by the UFU to adhere to the government guidelines on Covid-19 to prevent auction centres from possible closures.

Under current protocols, farmers entering marts are advised to wear face masks, gloves and maintain a minimum distance of at least 1m from other buyers.

Last week, Ballymena Mart voluntarily introduced temperature checks as an additional safety measure for staff and farmers.

Special sales

As sales of breeding sheep get under way, UFU president Victor Chestnutt called on farmers to respect the safety protocols.

“The last thing any of us want is the closure of marts again. This would be a disaster and would be a huge step back,” Chestnutt said.

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Ballymena Mart introduces temperature checks

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