Local processor culls birds after concerns over unauthorised antibiotic use

A local poultry processor has confirmed it culled birds after concerns over the use of unauthorised antibiotics.

Over 60,000 chickens were culled by Carton Brothers under the supervision of the Department of Agriculture.

The processor operates the Manor Farm facility in Shercock in Cavan.

In a statement to Northern Sound News, Carton Brothers said routine testing led to concerns over the use of unauthorised antibiotics in connection with two farmers, out of its over 180 suppliers.

It says the Department was notified and further testing was carried out.

It says out of "an abundance of caution" all birds from the two farms were "removed and disposed of".

It's believed the number of birds totalled upwards of 60,000.