Compassion in World Farming (CIWF), has expressed concern for farmers and animals in light of confirmation of the foot-and-mouth outbreak. Ms Mary-Anne Bartlett, director of CIWF-Ireland, said: "As animal welfarists, we are deeply distressed that this terrible disease has reached the Republic. Today is a black day for both farmers and animals.
"One major concern now is for the welfare of animals slaughtered on-farm, and to ensure that healthy animals are not killed unless absolutely necessary."