There are reports flying around that goats are going missing in Co Waterford.

Allegedly, the goats are being used in the bodhrán-manufacturing industry. The Dealer heard that they are being rounded up by lads wielding hurls. The skin of the goat is used to make the ancient instrument.

Not one for the fake news, The Dealer decided to investigate. Sure enough, when I contacted my friends in the Department they did not deny the rumors. Neither did they confirm them.

It seems that the national sheep and goat census figures tally with the rumours too.

At the end of 2016, there were just 135 goats in Waterford, almost 50 head less than December 2015.

The Dealer remains skeptical about this one. I hope people aren’t kidding here.

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