Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural A : Farmer and haulier convicted

A farmer and a haulier were today convicted at Armagh Magistrates' Court on a charge connected with the transportation of an animal.

Patrick McParland, Brootally Road, Armagh,was convicted at Armagh Magistrates' Court on one charge of causing a bovine animal to be transported in a way likely to cause injury or unnecessary suffering to it. He was fined £500 plus £15 offender levy.

Stephen Smyth, Madden Road, Keady Co Armagh,was also convicted one charge of transporting a bovine animal in a way which was likely to cause injury or unnecessary suffering. He was fined £500 plus £15 offender levy.

Mr Smyth transported an animal belonging to Mr McParland to an abattoir in Northern Ireland. The Official Veterinarian (OV) at the abattoir noticed that the animal was almost completely non weight bearing on its front right leg which was massively swollen. In the opinion of the OV the animal had been caused unnecessary suffering by being transported.

1. Mr McParland was convicted of one charge of causing a bovine animal to be transported in a way likely to cause undue suffering to it, contrary to Regulations 5(1)(a) of the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006 and Council Regulation (EC) No1/2005.
2. Mr Smyth was convicted of one charge of transporting a bovine animal in a way that was likely to cause injury or unnecessary suffering to that animal, contrary to Regulation 4(1) Welfare of Animals (Transport) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006.
3. The Department gives high priority to the welfare of animals and operates a vigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements. Any breaches are investigated thoroughly and offenders prosecuted as necessary.
4. All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office on 028 9052 4619 or email DAERA Press Office: [e-mail]. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07623 974 383 and your call will be returned.

Share this pageFacebookTwitter