Farmers' fear over mystery animal illnesses

Animals are still experiencing mysterious infertility and breathing problems in parts of West Limerick, it was claimed tonight.

The first problems in Askeaton and Cappagh began more than 15 years ago when farmers noticed a high number of deaths and birth deformities among cattle and horses.

The Cappagh Farmers Support Group said the serious animal health problems had continued to exist and worsen.

“Farmers are facing wipe out due to it becoming impossible to keep herds together, with high vet bills also being reported,” said a spokesman.

He said the group had received reports of cows with irregular calving patterns and others which prove not to be in calf. Other animals have shown irritation, and a failure to thrive despite being given high energy feeds.

“Some farmers have also reported that at night time when attending calving that they find their faces and eyes burning from substances in the air,” said the spokesman.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) led a major investigation into animal and human health problems in the area between 1995 and 1999.

When its report was completed in 2001 at a cost of €5.3m, it found no conclusive reasons for the problems.