Students in both veterinary and agriculture courses are facing considerable difficulty in securing placements on farms due to the rising number of COVID-19 cases.

In many instances, a period of on-farm or vet practice work is a mandatory requirement for graduating.

UCD has reduced the amount of placement time required by 50%, with final-year veterinary students now requiring 12 weeks in order to graduate.

However, a spokesperson for the college said that students still faced “enormous challenges” in securing placements.

As of now, it is intended to go ahead with placements as they arise

“It has undoubtedly been very difficult for veterinary practitioners as placement hosts and for veterinary students,” a UCD spokesperson said.

“In conjunction with the Veterinary Council of Ireland and following closely advice of the RCVS in the UK, mitigation measures have been put in place by the veterinary school to ensure students reach their day-one competencies upon graduation.”

Teagasc also said it was looking into the situation and keeping it under review.

“As of now, it is intended to go ahead with placements as they arise, with the consent of the individual learner and placement host,” a spokesperson said.