Brothers protecting their horses

TWO stud farm owners who assaulted two fox hunters had their case struck out after a judge heard the brothers were trying to protect their broodmares from distress.

James McCabe (47) and Stephen McCabe (37) have had ‘ongoing problems’ with hunters shooting near where the brood mares are kept, Drogheda District Court heard.

When father-and-son Brian and James McDonald were hunting in the laneway beside the field with hounds and guns, the McCabes approached them and asked them to leave the area.

A scuffle ensued and all four were charged with Section 2 assault.

However, the McDonalds were given the benefit of an Adult Caution while the McCabe brothers were brought before the court.

The McCabes, of Rathescar Middle in Dunleer, Co Louth were charged with assaulting the McDonalds under Section 2 of the Non-Fatal Offences Act on February 21st, 2016 at Rathescar.

Defence barrister Irene Sands told Judge John Coughlan the lane way the McDonalds were hunting in is near the McCabe’s house.

‘ The defendants have broodmares in stables and a field close to the lane,’ said Ms Sands.

‘ They have had ongoing problems with hunters shooting and the shooting causes distress to the horses,’ said Ms Sands.

Judge Coughlan struck the case out against the McCabes and remarked: ‘ Those with guns and hounds should not be near horses. I live on the Curragh and I know what I am talking about. The McCabes were entitled to get the hunters away. No-one is allowed to use guns and dogs in the vicinity of stud farms where there are horses. It’s black and white.’