The 30 day holding rule, introduced to combat the spread
of foot-and-mouth will remain in place until November 1st 2001, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Mr Walsh announced today.
The Minister today outlined exemptions to the rule to allow for the sale or supply of cattle within the 30 day period.
Cattle may be sold on to another holding within that time but forward movement to marts or dealers is prohibited. The holding must be cleared of all animals for one day each week while it is disinfected.
Mr Walsh pointed out that a controlled framework of animal movement would be essential for the containment of possible future foot-and-mouth outbreaks.
The Irish Cattle Traders and Stockowners association described the measures as a "reasonable compromise with regard to the ongoing foot-and-mouth situation in Britain."
ICSA President, Mr Charlie Reilly said that the exemption would facilitate legitimate cattle dealers in the supply of cattle to other farmers.
The Minister said the restrictions remained in place due to the continuing threat of foot-and-mouth from Britain, where cases continue to arise at the rate of two to six per day.