The segment featured Galway entreprenuer TJ Gormley demonstrating his new invention, which helps with the sheep tagging process by holding lambs securely in place.

Though the machine received praise from farmers, some viewers, who are perhaps unfamiliar with the realities of farming, took to Twitter to express their disgust.

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RTÉ was accused of broadcasting animal cruelty, with 88 complaints lodged since Friday. Meanwhile, animal rights group ARAN has launched a campaign to save one of the lambs, named Dynamo, from slaughter.

Speaking to Ryan Tubridy on RTÉ Radio One on Monday, IFA sheep chair John Lynskey said TJ Gormley is known for finding ways to help sheep farmers. He added that the two lambs featured did not seem distressed.

“They were sitting there nice and comfortable. When they took him [Dynamo] down he suckled on his mother, there was no fuss. I presume the fuss is coming from people who have never had to hold a lamb to do this job,” he said.

“We have to hold them in some way or another and this seems to be the easiest way. The lamb has to restrained and it’s a one-man operation. You’d normally hold them between your two shins, which could squeeze them a little and this removes all that.”

Meanwhile, oblivious to the drama, it seems that Dynamo the lamb has emerged unscathed after his high-profile appearance.

Poll results

You had your say in the results are in. Our poll received 390 votes, with 98% of the opinion that the machine is harmless and will help farmers. A total of 2% said the lamb seemed to be in distress.

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