Agriculture Committee Examines Criminal Investigation Process

The way criminal investigations in the farming sector are handled is at the top of the agenda as the Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Agriculture and Rural Development visits Loughry College today.

The Committee, which is visiting the Veterinary Services headquarters, will specifically look at the role of the Central Enforcement Branch, focusing on how criminal investigations are handled and the protection of the farming industry.

During the visit the Committee will be given a practical demonstration and an insight into case files and the investigation database.

Speaking before the visit, the Committee Chairman, Mr. Ian Paisley Jnr said: “In light of recent cases of deliberate infection of cattle and other horrific animal welfare cases, the Committee wants to find out more about the role of the Veterinary Enforcement Team in tracking down these perpetrators and in protecting the farming industry.”

In the afternoon, the Committee will move on to the An Creagán visitor centre, in the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains where they will meet members of the board to discuss renewable energy needs.

ENDS