The upcoming Ireland and Wales Six Nations match in Cardiff is the latest sporting fixture to be threatened by fears over the spread of the foot-and-mouth disease.
With the Cheltenham festival still hanging in the balance, the Minister for Agriculture Joe Walsh believes it’s chances to be no more than 50-50, the Welsh Rugby Union today suggested that Saturday’s crucial match may have to be re-scheduled.
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"We are aware of the situation. There are very serious implications that are obviously more important than an international rugby fixture," said a spokesman for the WRU.
The WRU went on to explain that Britain's agriculture ministry would make any decisions over what measures will be taken and whether the match should be called off.
The Department of Agriculture have already issued guidelines to Irish passengers travelling to Britain warning them to stay away from farms and not to bring food back into the country.
The disease affects only livestock but can be carried by humans. An estimated 20,000 Irish rugby fans are expected to travel to Cardiff for the game.
"We are in constant contact with the British Authorities," a Department of Agriculture spokesman told ireland.com.
"The situation is still very much under review. No decision has been taken as yet but the number one priority is to keep foot-and mouth disease out of Ireland. If that means some sporting occasions have to suffer, then so be it."
The IRFU have said they will continue to monitor the situation and have regular consultation with the Department of Agriculture and are happy to comply with any decisions reached."We're keeping an eye on things. If the department decides measures are necessary, we'll take it from there," a spokesman said.
In 1967, during the last foot-and mouth epidemic in Britain, the Government banned the New Zealand All Blacks from travelling to Ireland from Britain for a match.
Additional Reporting Reuters
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