One of the country’s oldest horse fairs should be cancelled this year to help curb the spread of Covid-19, according to the County Cork mayor. Cllr Ian Doyle said the annual Cahirmee Horse Fair in Buttevant, which takes place on July 12th and attracts thousands, is part of the cultural life of north Cork but that allowing it to go ahead this year would pose a serious risk to public health. “This is primarily a horse fair, and I think that those involved in the equine and agricultural sectors will understand the concerns surrounding the coronavirus and already have it in their minds this year’s fair will not be going ahead. According to the Buttevant Heritage website, Irish Travellers are ardent supporters of the horse fair and crowds gathered to buy and sell horses, meet family and friends and have weddings around the fair. “There is no question people are concerned as social distancing will be impossible if large numbers of people do turn up for the fair.

Source: The Irish Times May 16, 2020 12:32 UTC