In the absence of the Primate, who is in America at present attending a meeting of the Anglican Primates, the Archbishop of Dublin, The Most Rev Walton Empey said: "Church of Ireland people are deeply concerned at the seriousness of the situation regarding the possible spread of foot and mouth disease. In cancelling these meetings we hope to make some contribution to reducing the risk. Many of those attending come from rural areas.

"We would urge parishioners to exercise the greatest care and responsibility in preventing this disease from spreading. We all need to take heed of the advice now being issued by the authorities and act accordingly.

"We are very concerned for the well-being of the farming community and assure them of our support and prayers at this time."