Local lockdown: 'There is a responsibility on us to continue our work'

We’re just getting over the shock of the announcement really, it’s unfortunate that it’s come to this.

So far there’s been no major concerns among farmers. We’re in the middle of holiday season, the weather has picked up and there’s no pressure on most people to move stock. Everyone’s busy with silage and the harvest at the minute.

So far we’ve seen one slaughter plant put out of commission in Kildare. I hope that meat factories don’t see this as a tool to bring down the price because farmers would be concerned about that.

I think in the coming weeks we’re going to see more rigorous testing in meat factories.

We’ve no slaughter plants here in Offaly but we have seen the disruption to investment plans for Banagher Chilling in recent weeks. I believe it would handle 120 to 150 cattle a week if it goes ahead but it’s been held up by a technical glitch.

"Obviously there’s concern there among farmers with the [Kildare] Chilling closing. The lockdown that’s been announced is for two weeks but it could be more.

You’d have to be concerned. It’s an independent factory and it’s one of the leading buyers of sheep in the country and also has a significant cull cow operation. So that’s been the biggest fear among farmers.

"The meat plants will be under the spotlight. The struggle could be that this becomes the precedent and if there are any more outbreaks that further factories will have to close.

Farmers who were meant to send lambs last week thought they’d be back on Monday but now that’s changed. The factory would have its loyal suppliers who could be faced with having to go to a different factory and that will be difficult.

"Aside from the factories, agriculture was considered essential services the last time and its important that’s not forgotten. The lockdown was only introduced on Friday so it won’t be until Monday and into the week we’ll see the full effect of the announcement."

"There is a lot of concern among the wider rural community since the lockdown was announced, you can feel it wherever you go.

"I guess agriculture is a little bit different than most sectors in that we are an essential service and we have a responsibility to keep food on the table and that’s something we take very seriously.

There is a responsibility on us to continue our work and we’re doing so with a greater level of caution.

"The feeling on the ground is similar to when the initial lockdown was announced in March. "Farmers will keep going and all the work that needs to be done has gone ahead too.

The harvest is continuing as is silage, but with a degree of nervousness. Workers are keeping to themselves, they’re staying in their tractors there’s no standing around chatting.

"I would like to stress that the IFA is part of the community forum and that if anyone has concerns, or issues, or needs help getting supplies, they can contact their local IFA branch. We’re there to help."

Read more

Cattle and sheep kills to remain suspended at Kildare Chilling

COVID-19 lockdown: compulsory facemasks in marts