I see Teagasc has galvanised into COVID-19 action this week, with the launch of a new telephone helpline for farmers.

I’m told the action was initiated by a call from the Teagasc chair Liam Herlihy asking what Teagasc was doing in the national effort. Senior management sent the message to county managers and specialist division, who relayed it on to the front line. Some on the front line rebelled, pointing out their nitrate derogations, TAMS grants, BPS and other schemes workload.

However, a placating email from HQ thanking everyone for their efforts poured oil on troubled waters. The new phone line is open from 9.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 5pm. Nice civil working hours.