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LIVESTOCK THAT IS being stolen from farmers and being slaughtered in illegal abattoirs could end up entering the food chain that consumers eat.
Speaking on RTÉ’s Prime Time last night, Roy Robinson from the PSNI said they believe there are illegal abattoirs in the border region involved in these activities known as “rustling”.
He said that often the facilities in which the stolen animals are slaughtered will be little more than a room with a metal table and saw to cut up the carcases.
Illegal abattoirs
Professor Chris Elliott from the Institute for Global Food security spoke of one illegal slaughter house near to the Irish border, stating that it was “very well equipped” and had modern facilities, which he said shows the amount the of “sophistication” taken to set up a facility that could deal with such a large number of animals.
Almost 9,000 cattle and sheep have been stolen on this island from 2012 to date.
Official figures from the Department of Agriculture state that 555 cattle south of the border were stolen from 2012 to date.
New official Garda figures sourced by RTÉ Prime Time indicate that the number of sheep stolen since the beginning of 2012 is actually almost four times greater than cattle. Gardai figures reveal 1,979 sheep have been stolen between 2012 and 2014.
Garda Inspector Fergus Treanor confirmed that there are three criminal gangs involved, who go out and steal animals to order.
Professor Elliot said:
The number of animals that appear to be rustled right across the island of Ireland appears to be increasing. These animals have to be ending up somewhere, the likelihood is they will end up the food chain; they will go to illegal slaughter and will end up being sold in some shape or form to Irish consumers.
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Tragic to lose 3 ladies in an accident like that. RIP.
@Tweety McTweeter: true. Imagine to live to that age and die like that. I hope that they’re in a better place.
Sincere condolences to family and friends.R.I.P.
RIP. An horrific tragedy and condolences to Michael and the families.
Didnt like him as a minister but may she rest in peace . Thinking of all the families involved RIP
@Denise Prendergast: No need for that comment. He just lost his sister in very tragic circumstances.
@Denise Prendergast: don’t destroy your sentiment with raquish comment
RIP ladies tragic loss for Michael Noonans family and the other families no need for any political innuendos please.
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