The Department of Agriculture carried out a large-scale livestock seizure in Kilkenny last month.
It’s understood more than 200 cattle were seized in the operation.
The animals were seized with assistance from An Garda Siochana from a farm in North Kilkenny under the Agriculture departments powers in the Animal Health and Welfare Act.
In a statement to Agriland, that they say they will not be providing any further comment as the matter relates to an ongoing investigation.
The department says, however, that it takes the matter of animal welfare very seriously and is reminding the public that it operates a confidential helpline and email where the public can report incidents of animal cruelty or neglect for investigation.