Lorryload of pigs overturns in Sligo

A lorry-load of pigs overturned close to the route of the World Rally Championships in Co Sligo today.

A lorry-load of pigs overturned close to the route of the World Rally Championships in Co Sligo today.

Some 160 pigs spilled out from the three-tier truck when it overturned on a main national road into Sligo, which is hosting the final stages of an international rally.

Gardaí, assisted by Department of Agriculture officials, scrambled to round-up the farm animals at Collooney Roundabout just 10 kilometres  from the main hub of the event.

A Garda spokeswoman said two pigs were killed. The remainder were corralled and removed from the scene.

The driver of the lorry, which appeared to have toppled over as it negotiated a roundabout, was taken to hospital where his injuries were not thought to be serious.

Two cranes were brought in to lift the truck upright before it was towed away.

  • Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date

  • Sign up for push alerts to get the best breaking news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone

  • Listen to In The News podcast daily for a deep dive on the stories that matter