Farmer sentenced after Foyle Meats discovery

Gregory Boyd, of Gortahar Road, Rasharkin, Ballymena, was imprisoned for two months and fined £5,000 at Londonderry Magistrates’ Court today (November 16, 2012) on one charge under the Welfare of Animals (Transport) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006. He was also ordered to pay costs of £34. Boyd had previously pleaded guilty to the charge, on 20 September 2012.

This case involved the transport of a Holstein bull over 30 miles to Foyle Meats abattoir where, on arrival the DARD veterinary officer found the bull lying collapsed in the trailer, with its legs extended, and with a number of wounds on its hindquarters.

The bull was dehydrated and in very poor condition. The abattoir and DARD acted quickly to slaughter the bull and prevent further suffering.

The carcass of the bull was condemned by DARD veterinary staff as it was unfit for human consumption.

Michael Hatch, Senior Principal Veterinary Officer, in charge of DARD’s Veterinary Service Enforcement commented after the case: “This was a most distressing case of animal suffering. This bull was not fit to be transported and those responsible showed callous disregard for its welfare.

“DARD is committed to protecting and enforcing the welfare of animals and that includes their welfare during transport.

“I commend the veterinary and enforcement staff who investigated this case and brought it before the courts. I welcome the sentence imposed today by the Magistrate. I believe this is the first time that a farmer has been imprisoned in Northern Ireland for an animal welfare offence. I hope that this sentence acts as a deterrent in the future.”