Editorial: Independent review may finally offer answers on troubling Kilkenny farm saga
This week's Kilkenny People editorial on the latest update on Dan Brennan's farm, and a tough week for our hurling and camogie Cats
At long last, the Minister for Agriculture has ordered an independent review of his Department’s original investigation into matters at the North Kilkenny farm of Dan Brennan.
It has not come out of nowhere; Mr Brennan and his supporters, including public representatives and farming organisations, have been at pains to keep the issue on the agenda, seeking answers.
It’s over two decades since ‘severe’ issues with animal health emerged on his farm, causing him and his family untold hardship. He received support from vets who looked at his cattle, and Teagasc wrote to the EPA to say there was something wrong. However, a Department of Agriculture report did not agree.
It has taken a lot of work to keep the matter in the limelight, raising it repeatedly with the Minister for Agriculture. Now, he has finally agreed to that review into the original investigation.
As TDs and supporters have pointed out, the terms of reference for this may be crucial. But this certainly seems like a step in the right direction — shining a light on whatever happened. The hope now is that it can bring justice and closure to those affected.
A SPORTING CHANCE
There’s no doubt, it has been a challenging few days for Kilkenny sport. Our seniors hurlers exit the championship at semi-final stage, while in camogie, the Cats went down to a spirited Dublin side.
All is not lost, however, and Kilkenny athletes continue to inspire and compete on the big stage. The Olympics gets under way on July 24, and there will be huge interest in it. We are blessed to have a number of athletes from Kilkenny taking part.
One of them is Glenmore’s Mia Griffin, who will represent her country and county in Paris.
When Mia returns home, there will be huge excitement, and locals will have a chance to see a sporting hero in action in September when she competes in the Rás na mBan. The 18th edition of the race takes place in Kilkenny. No doubt, there will be great local interest in this exciting event.