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A Derry farmer was convicted of failing to comply with animal traceability regulations at Londonderry Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
Alan Thomas Dougherty, Woodburn Park, Derry, was convicted at Londonderry Magistrates’ Court of one charge of failing to notify the movement of five cattle off his holding.
He was also convicted of failing to comply with an animal by-product requirement in that he failed to collect, identify and transport animal by-products from three animals without undue delay.
He pleaded guilty and received a conditional discharge for two years.
This case arose from a cattle identification inspection on Mr Dougherty’s herd by officers from veterinary service animal health group, welfare and enforcement branch of DAERA.
Undermine
Reporting the case, DAERA warned that breaches of the cattle identification regulations weaken and undermine the cattle traceability system in Northern Ireland, including the integrity of the Department’s Animal and Public Health Information System (APHIS).
It added that the current interest in food safety by both Government and consumer groups means it is essential that DAERA is clearly seen to be implementing all legislation pertaining to the traceability of livestock.
Call for independent food safety inspections for Mercosur countries
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