Banned from farming for life

A Newbliss farmer who appeared before Judge Sean MacBride at Clones District Court on five animal cruelty charges was fined a total of €2,000 and banned from engaging in farming activities with livestock (cattle and sheep) for the rest of his life. Judge MacBride ordered Brian Wright, Killygorman, Newbliss, to divest himself of all livestock within 60 days. When defence solicitor Paul Madden asked the court not to remove his client's livelihood, which was a huge sanction, Judge MacBride was adamant that Mr. Wright was not fit to be in charge of livestock. "What happened on his farm on this occasion was appalling and terrible and it was his second offence," said the judge. Inspector Pat McMorrow, prosecuting, said that Garda Doherty and veterinary surgeon Brian Rice arrived at the farm at Drumbarragh, Newbliss, on February 16, 2009 after they had received a report regarding cruelty to livestock on the farm. They counted seven animal carcases at the scene. The carcases were found in a shed and out in the yard and were in a very advanced state of decay. Other animals on the farm were moving around in heavy muck and were bereft of harvested food and were in an emaciated condition, stated the inspector. Fodder was secured for them and they were rescued. Inspector McMorrow then handed in pictures of the scene, which he informed Judge MacBride were distressing. He also handed in a report from a veterinary inspector. There were 16 animals on the farm and seven were dead. The defendant had been convicted previously in relation to cruelty to animals, said the inspector. According to Inspector McMorrow when gardaí visited Mr. Wright, and pointed out the situation with respect to the dead animals, the defendant told them that he was aware of the situation and that he intended to contact Mulvanny's to have the cattle removed. Mr. Madden then told the judge that Mr. Wright had been making arrangements to have the animals moved but the shed he was after did not materialise. There was poor feed and it was difficult to get reasonable quality fodder for the animals. Recognisances were fixed in the event of appeal at €3,000 cash.