A county Armagh man has been fined and given a two year ban from keeping goats.
Jonathan Livingstone of Lislasly Road, who entered a guilty plea when he appeared at Armagh Magistrates Court, last Friday (December 18) was charged with offences in relation to failing to ensure the welfare of a goat, received a two year ban from keeping goats as well as a £400 fine.
He was also ordered to pay court costs of £116.
The charges were brought against Livingstone by Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon District Council under Section 9 of the Welfare of Animals Act (NI) 2011 following an investigation by Animal Welfare Officers for offences dating back to March 2015 and relating to the unsuitable conditions in which the goat was kept.
The goat was tethered too tightly and unable to graze. In addition, it had no access to drinking water.
A Council spokesperson welcomed the court’s ruling, commenting: “It’s always gratifying to secure a conviction in cases relating to the poor care and mistreatment of domestic pets, horses and non-farmed animals.
“Hopefully, this case will send out a clear message that the Council operates a rigorous enforcement policy to ensure full compliance of regulatory requirements and will not hesitate to prosecute those who fail to meet the welfare needs or cause unnecessary suffering to animals.
“The Council would encourage the public to be vigilant and report any suspected cases of mistreatment or cruelty to our Animal Welfare team on 07824 994490.
“The Council will investigate all complaints thoroughly and take formal action where necessary such as issuing Improvement Notices or, in extreme cases, seizing animals.”
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