Eight cattle have been killed from the inhalation of slurry gas in Co. Roscommon over the weekend.

According to Shannonside Radio, the eight cattle – valued at up to €14,000 – were killed in a slurry-related accident in west Roscommon at the weekend.

It is believed the incident happened at a farm at Lisacurkia, Tibohine, near Ballaghaderreen.

Two men were also purportedly overcome with fumes, but avoided serious injury, Shannonside reports.

A farmer was reportedly mixing slurry with solids when the animals died after inhaling toxic gases.

Dangers of slurry gas

Roscommon IFA chairman John Hanley confirmed the deaths, urging farmers to remember the dangers of slurry gas. “It’s a lethal gas,” he said.

“It’s a big financial loss; thankfully, there was no human loss – but, it’s a heavy financial blow.


“The first 30 minutes are lethal, when you’re mixing solids and liquids in the slurry; that’s when the gasses are released.

There should be no livestock – or humans – in an enclosed area when agitating. It’s an odourless gas; but, one breath can be deadly.

Continuing, the chairman warned: “Slurry season has started again around here; the slurry ban lifted yesterday, so people will be busy – but, farmers must always be careful and vigilant when dealing with slurry.

“People need to know the dangers of slurry; farmers have to take heed of farm safety and listen to the warnings. There were 24 farm deaths last year – this has to be reduced.”

Regarding slurry gas safety measures, gas detectors – that can be clipped onto one’s belt or to the top of a boot – are available to purchase as an extra precaution. These should not be totally relied on, however.