A Co. Down farmer was today fined and sentenced to three months in prison, suspended for two years, on animal welfare charges at Newry Magistrates’ Court.
John Thomas Sean Murphy (60), of Carnally Road, Silverbridge, Newry, was convicted in court of:
- One charge of failing to take reasonable steps to ensure the needs of an animal were met; and
- One charge of failing to prevent unnecessary suffering to bovine animals and one charge of failing to hold a carcase that had not been slaughtered for human consumption, pending consignment or disposal in such a manner as to ensure no animal or bird would have access to it.
Murphy was fined £2,500, in addition to a three-month custodial sentence suspended for two years.
He was also disqualified from owning, keeping, participating in keeping animals and being party to an arrangement under which that person is entitled to control or influence the way in which animals are kept, from dealing in animals, transporting and arranging for the transport of animals for two years
This case arose following a complaint from a member of the public.
The department gives high priority to the welfare of animals and operates a vigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements.
A spokesman said: “Any breaches are investigated thoroughly and offenders prosecuted as necessary.”
