Government Must Implement Stronger Legislation to Curb Attacks on Sheep – IFA

IFA National Sheep Chair Adrian Gallagher has called for immediate and more meaningful action from Government, following another devastating dog attack on sheep on the Dublin-Wicklow border in the last week.

Over 15 sheep with killed in the attack, with some being put down by a local vet due to the severity of their injuries. The dog was caught and the owner has been identified and authorities are dealing with the incident.

He said dog owners should be aware they are liable for the damage and losses caused by their dogs when cattle and sheep are worried or killed.

Dog attacks on livestock has reached unprecedented levels, causing immense distress and financial losses for the effected farmers.

Adrian Gallagher has called on both Minister’s with responsibility in this area to ensure there is robust structures in place to deal with these dogs and their owners who are shirking their responsibilities as dog owners.  

The IFA National Sheep Chair said the level of sanctions that are been applied do not reflect the savagery and trauma these uncontrolled dogs are causing. 

Recognising the importance of the national media campaign informing owners of their responsibilities,

He said the absence of a centralised database to identify ownership and those responsible for the dogs, and the lack of enforcement of licensing and microchipping, are all contributing to this persistent and escalating problem.

Adrian Gallagher said local authorities must immediately prioritise the enforcement of existing regulations to curb these attacks.