Officials are investigating after the remains of hundreds of calves were found dead in south-east Limerick.

A spokesperson said: “The Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine can confirm that an alleged incident in Limerick has been reported; the matter is subject to an ongoing investigation and no further comment will be made at this time.”

A similar investigation was launched last April after 270 calves were found dead on a Galway farm, most of which were thought to be dairy breeds.

Ethical Farming Ireland says “calf mortality is a real concern” for the charity.

Its founder Caroline Rowley told us: “Every year on farm calf mortality is around 50,000 across both sectors (beef and dairy) plus there are around 40,000 stillborn calves.

“The number going to slaughter has increased this year to 27,000, despite calf export increasing.”