IFA president, Tim Cullinan, has asked the public to be particularly conscious of biosecurity on farms at this time.
He said that farmers are a vital part of the food distribution system and the highest level of biosecurity measures need to be in place.
Farmers will have their own biosecurity measures to facilitate the collection of their produce, and to receive deliveries of feed and care for their animals, Cullinan added.
Visits by appointment only
“I am asking members of the public not to call to farms. Those who have business on farms should call strictly by appointment only.”
“Members of the public should avoid entering farms for leisure activities such as walking, shooting or hunting,” he added.
He said it is absolutely vital that the supply chain is “kept moving”. Many farms will be in trouble if the farmer falls ill or if people involved in processing or transporting produce or supplies become ill or have to self-isolate,” he added.
“At this time, we simply cannot be careful enough. Irish farmers not only feed over four million people here, but we provide raw materials that feed over 30 million in other countries.” Cullinan added.
The farm leader stressed that it is critical that the Irish, European and global food supply chains remain in operation to ensure that people can continue to have access to proper nutrition in order to maintain a balanced diet.
