- Laois Civil Defence has been placed on standby to assist if required with Disease Control Procedures. The situation currently stands that no cases of Foot & Mouth Disease have occurred in the Republic of Ireland, but a case has occurred a few miles across the border into Northern Ireland.

A disinfection vehicle has been prepared with the necessary materials and personnel have been assigned to tasks in the event of a callout. More information about the situation can be viewed here.

As a precautionary measure to avoid unnecessary movement, all Civil Defence training in Laois has been cancelled until further notice.

St. Patrick's Day parades throughout the county have also been cancelled. It had been planned to enter a Civil Defence float as part of a public awareness campaign.

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