4.00pm - Friday 7th August 2026 12,531

Listen on spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/69s7UihVP1RHgx4ZFCPejO?si=J0XwSFnrTe2_58hqGDtujA&utm_source=copy-link&sci=spotify%3Acard-config%3A1qwu6Jd7gzQrfVkeSYklcp

What really happened during the controversial DAERA cattle cull near Fivemiletown?

In this episode, we examine one of the biggest farming controversies to hit Northern Ireland in recent years with input from David of Redhouse Holsteins and Johnny of Thompson's Bridge Farm. Farmers and industry voices discuss the shooting of 51 cattle, the official response from DAERA, concerns over animal welfare, public safety, government accountability, and the growing calls for an independent public inquiry.

The discussion covers:

- The events surrounding the Fivemiletown cattle cull
- Why farmers believe the operation should never have happened
- Animal welfare concerns and alleged failures in decision-making
- Minister Andrew Muir's response and the independent review
- Why the farming community is demanding accountability
- What this means for the future of agriculture in Northern Ireland

This conversation reflects the views and opinions of the participants based on publicly reported information and ongoing developments. The events discussed remain subject to official review.

This episode of The Loft was recorded on Wednesday 5th August 2026, and the information was up-to-date at the time of recording. Andrew Muir has released a subsequent statement with more information on the events of the day from DAERA's perspective. This is available here: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HTCZAsUuU/?mibextid=wwXIfr

If you care about farming, animal welfare, rural communities, or agricultural policy, join the discussion below.

Redhouse Holsteins
https://www.tiktok.com/@redhouseholsteins?lang=en

Thompson's Bridge Farms
https://www.tiktok.com/@thompsons_bridge_farms?lang=en

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