'Fear Is Gripping Community'.
By Gary Grattan.
THE presence of the wild cat now ravaging sheep in North Antrim makes it essential that penalties for the illegal possession of such animals be very severe.
That's the view of the SDLP's north Antrim representative, Sean Farren. "Fear is growing among communities in the area as more sheep are killed by the 'cat'.
"This fear is increased with children returning to local primary schools over the next few days. Parents are worried about their young children's safety and together with school authorities and the police are taking precautions.
"This is an intolerable and dangerous situation. Those responsible for this animal being in the country and then releasing it into the wild have a heavy case to answer. Every effort must be made to rid the countryside of this animal.
Belfast Telegraph: 30th August 2003.