Farm groups welcome easing of restrictions

Farm groups have welcomed today's easing of anti foot-and-mouth measures.

Artificial insemination of cattle is to resume to allow farmers to breed new stock for next year.

IFA president Tom Parlon said the move was necessary in order to ensure farmers have continuity of income.

Meanwhile, the Irish Co-Operative Society said the plan to resume work at marts will greatly help small farmers.

Spokesman Martin Varley said it would reduce the risk of spreading foot-and-mouth as farmers would have shorter distances to travel with animals and would make more animals available for slaughter.