From Tuesday 1 December, Level 5 restrictions will ease and the entire country will move into Level 3 “with some modifications”, according to an Taoiseach Micheál Martin.

The news will be welcomed by many farmers across the country, but they should be aware that strict guidelines are still in place, especially around marts.

Marts

Under Level 3, it is likely that buyers can view stock in pens without prior appointment with the mart and subject to a minimum social distance of two metres.

Buyers will also be allowed into the ring to bid on animals, but this will also be subject to a two metre social distancing rule.

However, farmers are advised that they should contact the mart before attending a sale to avoid disappointment, as different marts have different guidelines in place.

The Department of Agriculture has written to mart managers across the country and appear to be taking the matter of COVID-19 restrictions in marts quite seriously.

Masks

Farmers will still be required to wear masks in marts.

In addition, the updated guidance is that people should now wear them outdoors in busy street areas, inside crowded workplaces and in places of worship.

County to county travel

From Tuesday, people will still be told to stay within their county, except for work, education or other essential purposes.

Farming business, such as moving livestock to out farms, visiting marts to buy or sell stock or a meat factory, is designated as an essential purpose.

If you have off-farm employment, you should continue to work from home if possible.

Households should still not mix with other households until 18 December, when a two-week Christmas exception (with guidelines) will apply.

Places of worship

Churches, museums and cinemas well reopen from Tuesday.

However, people are advised to check with their local church as to how Christmas services will run, as COVID-19 is likely to have an impact on mass attendance and times.

Weddings and funerals

Weddings with up to 25 guests will be permitted, as will funerals with up to 25 mourners.

Sporting events

Only approved professional and elite sports can take place, such as approved GAA matches, horse racing or another type of approved sporting event.

They must still take place behind closed doors.