CALVES AND CATTLE are being “stolen to order” in border counties like Cavan, Monaghan and Louth, the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association has warned.
There has been an increase in livestock thefts reported, particularly in Cavan and Monaghan, in the last few months, according to the farming union.
A garda warning to farmers in the area is in place, as are a number of initiatives to tackle the problem, a garda spokesperson told TheJournal.ie.
A similar alert has been issued north of the border by the PSNI; the BBC is reporting that 14 bullocks, valued at around €25,500 were stolen from a field in Dungannon in Co Tyrone last week.
“A lot of farmers in the border areas have been worried about this for some time,” ICSA Connacht/Ulster vice president John Flynn told TheJournal.ie.
“There’s a concern that in some cases groups are coming in and targetting animals, effectively, if you like, stealing them to order.”
Flynn said more expensive breeds like Charolais and Limousin were more likely to be targetted, and that in some instances newer farm machinery, tractors and diesel was also being stolen.
“Farmers think there must be local knowledge involved here, so the ongoing message is that we’re asking everyone to be vigilant.”
Flynn said farmers should take note of any unusual cars in the area, and report any suspicious activity to gardaí.
To embed this post, copy the code below on your site
have your say