A spate of sheep thefts from areas of west Wicklow has caused alarm among rural communities in the county.
There have been reports of thefts from flocks in Hollywood, Dunlavin, and Shillelagh. Farmers and people living in rural areas have been urged to be on the lookout for suspicious activity, particularly at night time.
The current strong trade in sheep means that farmers can face a severe financial hit due to animal thefts, which they may struggle to recoup.
Tomas O Connor, IFA County Chair Kildare/West Wicklow, said he had heard reports of several incidents in the west Wicklow area.
“After counting I realised 44 of my in-lamb cheviot ewes were gone. \ Philip Doyle
A farmer from Roundwood, Dunlavin, Co Wicklow, suspects thieves of stealing 44 in-lamb ewes from his farm during the first week of January.
“I had a sheep inspection coming up and brought in the ewes to the yard. I noticed when I had them all in that there was a large number missing,” Owen Brady told the
Irish Farmers Journal.
“After counting, I realised 44 of my in-lamb Cheviot ewes were gone. They were due to lamb around St Patrick’s Day.
“In total I estimate that the ewes are worth up to €10,000.”
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