The Minister for Agriculture has condemned examples of animal cruelty that were broadcast on an RTE programme last night.
Donegal TD. Charlie McConologue was reacting to the ‘Prime Time Investigates’ programme which broadcast scene of animal abuse being carried out by certain farmers around the Country.
In a statement the Minister said:
“I strongly condemn the shocking practices we saw on RTÉ Investigates tonight. They were certainly not reflective of the work that farmers put into managing their farm enterprises responsibly. Farmers care for their animals and would never want to see them mistreated.
As Minister, I have worked with stakeholders on a range of measures to improve calf welfare, and farmers and the industry are embracing these measures.
The footage shown by RTÉ represents the actions of a few. What we saw was utterly unacceptable, and in some instances, was unlawful.
My Department has requested RTÉ provide it with all of the footage available, and any other information it has, so that it can investigate the matter fully and take appropriate action”.
Sinn Féin spokesperson for Agriculture, Claire Kerrane TD, has said there must be consequences for those engaged in the vile scenes of abuse of calves contrary to the law and basic common decency.
She added that “Tonight’s programme was hard to watch. It highlighted cruel practices by some in some marts which do not reflect how the vast majority of handlers, mart staff and indeed, Farmers treat animals. In fact, the abuse displayed tonight flies in the face of basic common decency.
“Animal welfare standards exist for a reason but they are useless if not monitored and enforced and where these standards are not met, there needs to be consequences.
“A number of laws were blatantly disregarded in what was aired tonight – animal welfare and the treatment of young calves as well as the failure to adhere to laws in place for live exports as regards rest times and feeding. This is unacceptable.
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