Cattle found dead following animal welfare operation in Clare
Cattle were found dead following an animal welfare enforcement operation.
An animal welfare-related enforcement operation was carried out on a farm in Clare following the discovery of a number of dead cattle.
The Department of Agriculture carried out the operation with the assistance of An Garda Síochána on a farm holding yesterday.
It is understood that there were a number of dead cattle discovered on-site at the time of the operation and the remaining livestock were said to be in poor condition.
Following the operation, the department issued a reminder to farmers that “Under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 authorised officers may enter and inspect, at all reasonable times, any land or premises where an animal may be or has been present.”
Herd owners have a legal obligation and responsibility to ensure that the health and welfare of the animals they own or control are safeguarded.
Where welfare issues arise, the department aims to engage with herd owners to first try and resolve non-compliance matters by voluntary means or, failing that, through the issuing of legal notices or formal direction.
“The removal of animals from a farm is only undertaken as a last resort to protect animal health and welfare. The Department is committed to the policy that animal welfare standards are vigorously applied in a fair and even-handed manner.”
The dedicated email address and helpline in place for reporting suspected cases of animal welfare are:
- Helpline Phone No: 01 607 2379.
- Email address: animalwelfare@agriculture.gov.ie
