Continuance of livestock sales vital, Ewing argues

MARKETS: Rural economy secretary says farmers and breeders’ livelihoods are at stake

The continuation of livestock sales during the Covid-19 crisis is vital to the livelihoods of farmers and breeders.

That was the message from Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing following the publication of the latest guidance for the safe operation of livestock marts during the coronavirus pandemic.

“As well as helping to ensure the continued supply of food for people and communities and provide an important revenue stream for livestock farmers and breeders, keeping auction marts open will support hauliers and other businesses involved in the agricultural supply chain,” said Mr Ewing.

“That will help to protect livelihoods in the rural economy, while at all times adhering to social distancing rules.”

He said the guidance, which has been developed by the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), was led by science and in accordance with Scottish Government guidelines for businesses on social distancing.

The livestock mart guidance includes a ban on people over the age of 70, pregnant women, children, or members of the public attending sales.

It also requests farmers and hauliers to leave the mart once dropping off stock for sale, and for buyers to register their attendance in advance of a sale and confirm they have not been in contact with a positive Covid-19 case nor have visited a high-risk area during the previous 14 days.

Sales of prime stock, cull animals and store stock are permitted, and breeding stock can also be sold through the live ring only.

However, any sales that would normally attract large gatherings, or require the seller to be in attendance, such as bull sales, are not permitted.

IAAS director Neil Wilson thanked the Scottish Government for its support in allowing the continued operation of livestock markets.

He said: “IAAS members have been working diligently to ensure the implementation of these guidelines to protect human health whilst playing their important part in the food chain.

“The addition of breeding sales to the schedule now means that we can also ensure the continuity of the food chain in the longer term.”

ANM Group operating a sale during the pandemic.