French authorities have arrested a man as part of an investigation into cruelty against calves at a lairage in Cherbourg, France.

Cherbourg prosecutor Yves Le Clair is quoted by local media this Friday as saying that “early investigations indicate that this is an isolated case”.

He added: “My investigation is into acts of cruelty by an individual and not into the running of the business.”

The prosecutor’s office confirmed to the Irish Farmers Journal that the local reports were correct.

Videos

Horrific video footage published on Friday shows a man abusing calves.

The Department of Agriculture has condemned in the strongest terms any ill treatment of livestock and has urged any persons who have direct knowledge or evidence of breaches of animal welfare to report it directly to the relevant authorities without any delay.

“In relation to the export of live animals, Ireland applies strict controls in relation to welfare of animals including during transport and has procedures and checks in place to ensure compliance with EU and national legislation.

“Prior to export, all livestock undergo an animal health and welfare check carried out by a Department official veterinarian to ensure that only fit and healthy livestock are certified for export.

“All trucks are inspected and checked for water, spacing and other legislative requirements prior to departure.

"Where non-compliance is identified, appropriate remedial action is taken,” a Department spokesperson told the Irish Farmers Journal.

With additional reporting from Thomas Hubert.