Calls for inspection flexibility for sheep farmers

Farming organisations have also called for action to be taken by authorities to protect sheep farmers from the 'irresponsible behaviour of some dog owners' after a spate of dog attacks on sheep in recent weeks

'There are very few sheep farmers in the country who have not had the horrendous experience of finding their flock savaged by dogs, yet the official figures recorded only 241 such incidents in 2020.'

Greater flexibility by the Department of Agriculture around sheep inspections during the busy lambing months is being sought for farmers.

Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association sector chair Sean McNamara said there were welfare issues in moving heavy in-lamb or recently lambed ewes; they do not need to be subjected to unnecessary stress.