At least six dead calves and other dead animals have been dumped in a Co Tyrone river.
Local residents reported a number of dead animals and a foul smell coming from the Colebrooke River near Fivemiletown on Friday.
Local man Kevin McElvogue, who is standing in the upcoming local council elections as an independent, said he had been contacted by concerned residents in the area.
READ MORE: Three dead lambs dumped in Co Tyrone field
As well as ‘six or seven’ dead calves, Kevin said there were lambs, ewes and chicken carcasses dumped in the river.
“I have been contacted by a number of residents in the Fivemiletown area regarding this terrible situation of dumping of a large number of animals in the road side and river.
“This is totally unacceptable in a rural environment where people walk and the smell is unbelievable.”
The Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs said the dead animal dump had been reported, but as it was not causing an obstruction in the river, it was up to the nearby landowner to dispose of the animals.
“DAERA is investigating reports of animal carcasses being left in the river near Fivemiletown,” a spokesperson said.
“Where a carcass is dumped in a river and is causing an obstruction to the flow of water, disposal is the responsibility of the Rivers Agency.
“Disposal of carcasses found on the banks of rivers, and those in the river not causing an obstruction are the responsibility of the adjoining landowner.
“Where a carcass is dumped elsewhere, including on public land or highways, and ownership of the carcass cannot be ascertained, responsibility for disposal rests with the local authority.
“It is vital for the agri-food and livestock industry that there is high public confidence in its ability to dispose of animal carcases, animal by-products and waste in a safe and sustainable manner.
“Local councils have powers to take actions against such fly-tipping and action may be taken against the owner of the carcass.
“Most farmers deal with their fallen stock responsibly, but unfortunately there is a small number of farmers who don’t and this can impact on the reputation of the rest.”
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