Cork farmer admits three counts of animal neglect

The case was sent forward for sentencing at the sessions of Cork Circuit Criminal Court starting on October 29

Sergeant Dave Delea said the Director of Public Prosecutions directed that the case could be sent forward for trial by indictment or that a guilty plea could be entered in Cork District Court and the case could be sent forward for sentencing at Cork Circuit Criminal Court. File picture: Larry Cummins

A 42-year-old farmer facing the prospect of trial by judge and jury on animal neglect charges signed pleas of guilty to three counts on Thursday.

Michael Kenneally of Richmond House, Dunkettle, County Cork, had sentencing in his case adjourned at Cork District Court until the forthcoming sessions of Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

He signed pleas of guilty to three charges contrary to sections of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.

The first charge stated that on December 8, 2023, he failed to provide a sufficient quantity of wholesome and uncontaminated drinking water or suitable liquid for an animal’s fluid intake requirements, a suitable sufficient quantity of wholesome food and such other nourishment as required by the animal.

The second charge stated that he failed to take all necessary steps to ensure that the animal was kept and treated in a manner that safeguarded its health and welfare and did not threaten the health or welfare of the animal or another animal.

The third count related to the same date and place and stated that he caused or permitted anything to be done to an animal which caused unnecessary suffering to, or endangered the health or welfare of an animal or neglected or were reckless, regarding the health or welfare of the animal.

No details were outlined in court as to the background circumstances which gave rise to the charges being brought. It is anticipated that this evidence will be given at the sentencing hearing.

Sergeant Dave Delea said the Director of Public Prosecutions directed that the case could be sent forward for trial by indictment or that a guilty plea could be entered in Cork District Court and the case could be sent forward for sentencing at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

John Colthurst, barrister for Michael Kenneally, said that signed guilty pleas were being entered to the three charges. On that being done, Judge Mary Dorgan sent the case forward for sentencing at the sessions of Cork Circuit Criminal Court starting on October 29.