Farmers to be allowed freer movement of livestock

The row over the 30-day restriction on annual movements from farm to mart is over.

Anti-foot and mouth restrictions had placed a ban on unsold livestock being represented for sale for a month since their last trip.

Registered dealers will now be allowed two sales in livestock marts within a 30-day period. Irish Farmer’s Association President, John Dillon, says it is a good deal for all concerned.

Mr Dillon says, "it is going to allow livestock marts to work and allow dealers to work legitimately with two sales within the mart, so farmers who only go once a month can now go anytime during the mart."