An “illegal blockade” of Dawn Meats’ Ballyhaunis plant is causing hardship to west of Ireland sheep farmers who instead of selling their factory-ready lambs, are instead being subjected to intimidation and abuse, according to Dawn Meats.

“It is disappointing that the illegal blockaders are preventing west of Ireland sheep farmers from being able to sell their lambs, in spite of agreement being reached between all parties over the weekend.

Direct impact

“The actions of farmers blocking the gates are directly impacting on the livelihoods of their fellow farmers, and the hundreds of employees of the plant who have been forced out of work by the illegal blockades.

“Sheep farmers and staff are the innocent victims here, and instead of being subject to intimidation and abuse they should be allowed to deliver their animals,” a spokesperson for Dawn Meats said on Monday evening.

The processor warned that these sheep are now going to be out of market specification on weight and fat score when sold

The protesters, who do not supply beef to the factory, are preventing vehicles from delivering the sheep of fellow farmers through the factory gates, according to Dawn Meats.

The processor warned that these sheep are now going to be out of market specification on weight and fat score when sold.

Customers are being lost for Irish sheepmeat, as there has been no kill for two weeks, it added.

Dawn Meats has been forced to issue temporary lay-off notices to over 500 staff as a result of the blockades.

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