A judge convicted a 55-year-old farmer at court on Tuesday, July 6th, 2021.
Mr Rodney Robinson of Cushenny Road in Portadown appeared before Craigavon Magistrates.
Farmer convicted at court for:
- Two charges of removing, or causing or permitting the removal of an animal’s ear tag;
- One charge of failure to notify the death of a bovine animal;
- Also, one charge of failure to keep a herd register.
Mr Robinson was fined £375.
The case arose, as a result of Mr Robinson removing the ear tags of two of his cattle. The department’s Welfare and Enforcement Branch (WEB) carried out an investigation.
DAERA stated that breaches of the cattle identification regulations weaken and undermine the cattle traceability system in Northern Ireland.
The spokesperson stated that this includes the integrity of the department’s Animal and Public Health Information System (APHIS).
“The current interest in food safety by both government and consumer groups means it is essential that the department is clearly seen to be implementing all legislation pertaining to the traceability of livestock.”
“The importance of correctly identifying a bovine animal cannot be overstated; an animal’s identification number accords it a description, sex, age, movement history, and disease status.”
“Properly maintained herd registers form an integral part of an animal’s traceability, supporting the accuracy and integrity of the Department’s Animal and Public Health Information System (APHIS).”
“Accurately maintained herd records corroborate and complement the APHIS details and help maintain public confidence in beef traceability and assists in animal disease control.”
£25,000 fine for farmer over health and safety breaches
Meanwhile, a judge has fined a farmer nearly €30,000 following an employee’s death.
Mr William James Doyle appeared before Newry Crown Court on Monday, July 5th, 2021.
The Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) has investigated a fatal incident which subsequently has led to the prosecution of Mr William James Doyle, Ballyward, Castlewellan.
