Concerns Raised Over Treatment of Abandoned Pigs in County Armagh
A councillor has expressed shock and dismay following the shooting of two abandoned pigs by government officials, who subsequently left the animals' bodies in a public area for discovery.
Bróna Haughey reported that a local family, who had been regularly feeding the pigs after they appeared near a scenic viewpoint in County Armagh, found the deceased animals.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (Daera) stated that the pigs were in distress and euthanasia was considered necessary to safeguard their welfare.
Haughey has formally written to Daera Minister Andrew Muir seeking clarification on whether all possible alternatives to euthanasia were thoroughly explored.
"I just feel this action was a bit rash," she said.
"Two innocent animals who had been abandoned in the first place, which was cruel in itself.
"Then being looked after, with the possibility of rescue, to just be shot on site and then left there for the public to see.
"I feel the department needs to answer questions."
The pigs had been roaming near the townland of Tassagh, and upon learning of their presence, Haughey began investigating rescue options.
She expressed hesitation in posting about the pigs online due to previous incidents of animal abandonment in the area and concerns that publicizing their location might lead to harm.
However, before a charity could respond with a rescue plan, the pigs had already been euthanized.
"It's caused significant upset in the community because these animals were being fed by a number of families," the councillor added.
Department Cites Welfare and Disease Concerns
A spokesperson for Daera explained that tracing the pigs' ownership or securing appropriate care was not possible.
"The animals in question were found to be abandoned, recumbent, in distress and lacked any form of identification," they said.
"In situations like this, where pigs are left unattended, unidentified and suffering, Daera must act based on welfare concerns and statutory powers."
The spokesperson further noted that after careful assessment and in the absence of suitable alternatives, euthanasia was deemed necessary for the pigs' welfare.
"Members of the public should not attempt to feed farmed animals, including pigs, household waste," the statement continued.
"To do so may result in the spread of disease and threatens the high animal health status of Northern Ireland."
Daera urged the public to report any instances of straying or abandoned farmed animals to the department rather than intervening directly.
Calls for Accountability and Removal of Animal Remains
Haughey requested that the council, which employs an independent contractor, remove the pigs' bodies from the site.
"I'm aghast at how this has came about. I don't think that possibility of rescue and veterinary care was followed," Haughey added.
