A RACING stables near Dunshaughlin, Co Meath is at the centre of the investigation into the occurrence of equine Piroplasmosis for the first time in Ireland.
The Irish Timeshas learned there have been 28 cases of the tick-borne disease diagnosed at the stables. The Department of Agriculture was told about the outbreak in three horses on September 2nd, but last June, clinical signs were seen in the animals.
These were fever, anaemia and poor performance and it was during the investigation of the lack of form, that the disease was discovered. Control measures have been put in place at the stables and the movement of horses has been restricted.
Representatives of the equine industry will meet Department of Agriculture officials today.