Taoiseach Micheál Martin has confirmed this evening (Tuesday, February 23) that ‘Level 5’ Covid-19 restrictions will continue until April 5, extending the period of restrictions from the March 5 date that was announced at the start of the year.

This also means, of course, that Level 5 restrictions as they apply to the agriculture sector will also be in place until April 5.

Marts

Mart sales can only be held online under Level 5.

Arrangement can be made for marts to facilitate the weighing of animals; the matching of stock between buyers and sellers; dropping-off of animals; and buyer inspection of stock in pens (by appointment only).

The actual bidding process takes place only online.

In other changes, Covid-19 support payments and measures have been extended until June 30.