A jury has been discharged in the trial of a Mayo farmer who is facing a large number of animal cruelty charges.
The jury was sworn in just last week for the trial of Seán Coughlan, with an address at Lahardane, Ballina, Co Mayo; and Coughlan Farming Ltd, for which Mr Coughlan is sole director.
Mr Coughlan and his company are facing a combined total of 78 charges connected to the welfare of animals on a farm at Laragan, Elphin, Co Roscommon.
However, when Mr Coughlan appeared before Judge Ronan Munro this morning, the jury was discharged to allow the accused to secure legal representation.
Mr Coughlan said he is unable to pay for legal representation as the Department of Agriculture won’t allow him to sell milk or animals, and Judge Munro said he would grant legal aid but Mr Coughlan must provide a statement of means.
The charges against him, and the company for which he is director, relate to allegations from the Department of Agriculture that up to 500 calves had died on the farm between 2023 and 2025.
The case will reappear before Roscommon Circuit Court on Thursday afternoon to ensure he has secured representation. The trial will proceed at a later date.
SHARING OPTIONS