Mr John Alfred Neill, English Street, Downpatrick, Co Down, was sentenced at Downpatrick Magistrates Court on 7 February 2013 of three charges under the Animal By Products (Enforcement) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2011 and two charges under the Welfare of animals Act (NI) 1972. Mr Neill had previously pleaded guilty to these charges.u2028He u2028received 150 hours community service on the Welfare charges and was fined £450 plus £74 costs.u2028u2028These discrepancies came to light following a number of visits by DARD staff to Mr Neill’s farm in relation to sheep welfare concerns.u2028u2028
The Department of Agriculture (DARD) gives high priority to the welfare of animals and operates a vigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements. Any breaches are investigated thoroughly and offenders prosecuted as necessary.u2028]]>
