Stormont’s agriculture committee is set to convene an extraordinary meeting during the Assembly’s summer recess to examine the controversial cull of 51 cattle near Fivemiletown, County Tyrone, according to committee chairman Robbie Butler. The humane slaughter was carried out last month by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Humane Slaughter Team under a court order stemming from a previous animal welfare conviction.
Stormont Agriculture Committee Schedules Extraordinary Session
The Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (AERA) Committee will meet next Monday to review the operation. DUP deputy leader Michelle McIlveen stated that her colleague Deborah Erskine had been raising concerns with the minister for nearly five weeks. McIlveen emphasized that while the independent review initiated by the minister is necessary, parliamentary scrutiny remains vital. According to McIlveen, the scenes witnessed outside Fivemiletown were truly shocking and took place in public view, making public-domain discussions essential.
Agriculture Minister Orders Independent External Review
Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir previously announced an external review of the incident to examine the circumstances and context of the veterinary staff’s actions. Muir stated that he and his chief veterinary officer take public concerns very seriously. According to the minister, the review will be conducted by someone outside the department to provide full assurance and identify future lessons. DAERA plans to publish the terms of reference shortly and share the final findings and recommendations with the Assembly.
Did you know? DAERA’s Humane Slaughter Team executes culls following formal court orders related to animal welfare convictions.
Stakeholder Engagement and Accountability
Minister Muir confirmed plans to engage directly with the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) and the Ulster Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (USPCA). Both organizations have voiced apprehension regarding the execution of the cull. Muir also requested a meeting with the chair and deputy chair of the AERA Committee to outline the operational context. DUP representatives have pledged to hold the minister and departmental officials accountable throughout the upcoming legislative oversight process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the 51 cows culled near Fivemiletown?
According to DAERA, the cull was executed by the Humane Slaughter Team following a court order tied to a previous animal welfare conviction belonging to the cattle owner.
Who is reviewing the Fivemiletown cattle cull?
Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir commissioned an independent external reviewer from outside DAERA to examine the circumstances surrounding the intervention.
When will the AERA Committee meet to discuss the incident?
AERA Committee chairman Robbie Butler confirmed that an extraordinary meeting is scheduled for next Monday during the Assembly’s summer recess.
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