Clare’s Independent TD has pressed the Taoiseach to amend level five restrictions so that marts can remain open under current restrictions.
As level five restrictions come into force today, marts can now only trade online, something Michael McNamara believes will damage the sector.
The Taoiseach says current restrictions are required, however.
When the pandemic took hold last March, marts were among a number of businesses forced to suspend activity, and while they subsequently resumed trading, this was under a number of new restrictions.
Now, under level five, marts will continue to operate, but only online, and access to sites will be strictly controlled.
But Clare’s Independent TD says the move to online sales is not the panacea it’s presented as for many businesses.
Speaking in the Dáil, Scariff Deputy Michael McNamara urged the Taoiseach to reconsider reversing the decision to prevent them trading under current restrictions.
The Taoiseach has ruled out a change to the restrictions for the coming weeks however.
Micheál Martin admits the restrictions will be tough for many, but insists they are necessary.
