As the busy spring period has now passed, the isolation of the COVID-19 lockdown is potentially more stressful and can be especially serious for farmers.

Recognising the challenges, Teagasc adviser Ivan Whitten has advised members of discussion and knowledge transfer groups to pay particular attention to the quieter members of groups, people who may value a conversation but be shy about making the first move to talk. During the COVID-19 lockdown, social interaction with friends, neighbours and colleagues has been severely curtailed. This is especially impacting some members of the farming community. However, as Whitten says, something as simple as a phone call and conversation can help during this challenging time. Boortmalt gave no further update on this.