St Patrick's Day events are cancelled or delayed as a precaution against the spread of foot and mouth disease.
The foot and mouth crisis means many Saint Patrick's Day festivities are cancelled or postponed However, Some events will still go ahead but not in the traditional manner.
Members of the Hayes High School Rebel Band from Austin, Texas, came to Ireland to take part in the Dublin Saint Patrick's Day parade. While they are disappointed that this event has been cancelled, they are determined to make the most of their time in Ireland. Band member, Rachel Deville, said it is disappointing after all the hard work to prepare for the visit to Ireland.
The festival is being put on hold until the foot and mouth crisis is over.
Maria Moynihan, Dublin St Patrick's Festival, says that the celebrations will happen, just not right now.
It is not just Dublin that has been affected. Parades and celebrations have been cancelled throughout the country. In Limerick, the cancellation of events means the loss of around £3 million. John Ryan, Mayor of Limerick, says there is a need for many businesses dependent on tourism to be compensated by the state.
As parades have been cancelled, people are also being asked to stay away from the countryside. Gilly Carey, countryside warden, has been patrolling the Sugar Loaf over the past few weekends. She says that people have not understood the message to stay out of the mountain area.
Colin Murphy, Wicklow Uplands Council, warns people not to walk in the mountains. He says people should stay on the roads and take care during the foot and mouth scare.
All national parks where animals might roam will remain closed. Most city parks, though, should be open.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 16 March 2001. The reporter is Eileen Whelan.
