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As COVID-19 daily cases continue to number in the thousands, two more marts have decided to postpone their opening sales of 2021.
Carraigallen Mart in Co Leitrim had been due to hold a sale on Monday 11 January, but contacted farmers on Monday afternoon to advise them the sale would not be held.
Cootehill Mart in Co Cavan has also notified farmers that “due to the continuing high number of Covid cases” it was postponing two sales.
Its sheep sale scheduled for Tuesday 12 January and its cattle sale pencilled in for Wednesday 13 January have now been postponed.
On Friday, Carnaross Mart decided to postpone all sales until Monday 18 January “for the health and safety of both our staff and customers”.
Safety
At least 20 marts have so far called off sales that were scheduled to take place in the first two weeks of the year.
The introduction of Level 5 restrictions has resulted in marts reverting to a drop-and-go service, with all bidding taking place online where sales do go ahead.
Farmers can book time in a lairage to view stock prior to the sale beginning and must ensure they are masked and observe social distancing guidelines while on the premises.
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