The Monaghan County Vet has welcomed the prosecution of a man operating an illegal slaughterhouse.
Last month, Barry McConnon was fined €2,500 and had relevant equipment seized following an intelligence-led investigation.
In April 2018, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, Louth and Monaghan County Council, the Department of Agriculture and the Gardai uncovered an illegal slaughterhouse and cutting plant on a farm on the Monaghan-Louth Border.
Four untagged lambs, heads, legs, offal and piles of fleeces were discovered.
Because their origin couldn't be determined, the lambs had to be destroyed - with all everything removed to an approved knackery.
An illegal cutting plant nearby was also uncovered, with butchers equipment also seized.
In November, Barry McConnon pleaded guilty to six offences and was ordered to pay a fine, contribute to legal costs and forfeit all the seized equipment.
Monaghan County Council Veterinary Officer, Brendan Smyth says it was a significant prosecution.
