Stiff new rules for livestock markets

ALL auction sales of breeding animals have come to an abrupt end as livestock markets ramp up biosecurity arrangements in an attempt to stay open.

The Livestock Auctioneers’ Association (LAA) yesterday announced that breeding sales will cease for at least three weeks.

Most markets are already operating “drop and go” policies but this will now be compulsory for vendors at all centres.

This means farmers must remain in their vehicles while market staff unload their animals. They will not be allowed in market offices or pennage areas and must leave once their animals have been unloaded. Staff will collect sale documents from vehicles. As for buyers, only pre-registered purchasers will be given access.

Where possible, buyers should “double-up” and make multiple purchases on behalf of others.

Markets will not permit any more buyers around the ring than the minimum two-metre social distancing gap will allow.

Buyers must also ensure they do not crowd into sales offices.

The new rules were agreed by the LAA following daily teleconferences with Defra and the Welsh Government. The trio agreed it was vital for livestock markets to stay open as they play a crucial role in the livestock food chain.

Chris Dodds, LAA executive secretary, said: “We appreciate these new measures create challenges. However it is important we work together to help deliver an efficient supply of livestock to the food chain, whilst protecting everyone from the virus.”

Markets will need to keep a register of everyone who attends auctions, and buyers will have to sanitise before and after each sale.

Auctioneers must also prevent all potential “gathering” points and ensure cafes and canteens shut.