Investigations are continuing after a number of pedigree Charollais rams were stolen from a field in Co.Laois last week.
Now Mountmellick Gardai are appealing for information relating to the theft of seven rams on social media and said: “If you have any information that may assist us or know of their whereabouts please contact us.”
The animals are believed to have been taken from a field near Clonaslee, near the Laois-Offaly border, between St. Patrick’s Day (Wednesday 17 March) and Friday 19 March.
Sheep theft has been an ongoing issue around the country recently. Earlier this year, a farmer in Co. Wicklow had 44 in-lamb ewes taken in an overnight raid. The farmer involved was left with his flock decimated and serious financial repercussions.
Last month, Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmer’s Association (ICSA) sheep chairman Sean McNamara said that his organisation is “receiving more reports of sheep rustling than ever before.”
Mr McNamara warned there is potential that the situation could deteriorate even further over the coming months as farmers put dry hoggets out to the hills. “Come mid-March and into April, lambs and hoggets can be swooped and brought straight to the factory, with no need for them to be moved elsewhere.”
Anyone with information relating to the matter is asked to get in touch with Portlaoise Garda Station on: 057 8674100.
LSL News.