Darren Jackson (40) of Rivermeade, Co Dublin admitted driving four pigs from a farm in Cavan to the site, but said that an accomplice used a scalpel to injure the animals.

A sitting of Wicklow Circuit Criminal Court heard a flock of around 18 sheep including ewes and lambs were penned into a shed with no water and which contained the carcass of a ram.

The horse was seized and transported to a veterinary hospital, where the examining vet found that it was extremely emaciated with no fat evident anywhere

Michael O’Reilly of Cois Maigh, Mogeely, Castlemartyr, Co Cork was convicted in May 2024 when he pleaded guilty to seven charges

There were 50 adult dogs and 22 puppies present of various breeds including cocker spaniels, poodles, bichons, cavaliers, Burmese mountain dogs, Newfoundlands, collies, Jack Russells and cross breeds.

James O’Reilly (46) of Parc na Craobhai, Gorey, Co Wexford pleaded guilty to two offences contrary to the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013.

Two puppies found abandoned in a plastic bag in Dublin are now in the care of Dogs Trust Ireland.