The operators of marts are continuing to work to have live auctions restored. Irish Cooperative Organisation Society says it is in discussions with the Department of Agriculture to agree strict protocols for sales to resume.
Some online sales have been taking place, but there is an eagerness on the part of many farmers and mart operators to have live sales restarted.
Concerns around social distancing led to the cancellation of sales last months. Today ICOS said that if it can reach agreement any new rules, would be, 'strictly enforced to ensure a limited and tightly controlled attendance of buyers and sellers.
They would attend by appointment only and social distancing would be rigorously adhered to during the process. General visitors,