Calls for extreme measures around the country

Junior Marine Minister Hugh Byrne has called for drastic new measures to be implemented to combat the spread of foot and mouth disease.

Minister Byrne wants disinfecting mats outside schools, churches and pubs and at the entry and exit points to all towns nationwide.

He said, while the moves may seem extreme, they are necessary.

"As a society, both urban and rural, we are facing a very serious situation. I am now calling upon every citizen to take individual responsibility for their actions in relation to the control of this disease. This, I believe, is not a scare tactic; we must take this threat seriously," he said.