THE IRISH FARMERS Association is offering a reward of €10,000 for information about the theft of livestock from a Westmeath farm.
75 cattle and 25 sheep were taken, which makes it one of the largest ever thefts of livestock in the State.
Westmeath couple, Niall and Christa Dillon, told RTÉ News that they are shocked and devastated by the theft. Niall said:
I came up to the farm on Thursday afternoon… I came up to the gate and seen the lock was cut, I kinda knew then there was something.
Christa said, “It will take us a long time to replace and start again…it has just destroyed the herd.”
The animals were taken on Thursday from a field at Cornaher, Kilbeggan, which is close to the N6, Old Dublin Road between Kilbeggan and Tyrrellspass.
Only four animals were left behind on the farm.
All of the animals that were taken are tagged and are fully traceable under the Department of Agriculture system. Niall added,
We just want our cattle back, it’s as simple as that. That’s the end game, we want to get them back.
Gardaí are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to contact them at Athlone Garda Station at 090 6498550, The Garda Confidential Line 1800 666111 or any Garda Station.
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