Farmers raised safety concerns for their animals and land during the latest hearings of a public inquiry into a proposed gold mine at Greencastle. The Planning Appeals Commission held sessions at the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh on the first day of the inquiry's fourth week.

Pat McCullagh, whose farm lies closest to the planned mine waste storage facility, stated that contaminated dust or chemicals could endanger his livestock. He noted substantial rainfall at the site raises landslide risks. McCullagh added that a water well on the mine boundary would sit under an industrial building, rendering it unusable and limiting future animal keeping.

McCullagh also cited risks of subsidence and sinkholes from exploration activities. He pointed to plans for 44,000 tonnes of explosives over the mine's life, with twice-daily blasting. Prevailing westerly winds would carry toxins to his farm first, he said.

Paul Holywood, another local farmer with milking cows on his family land for 72 years, said his sons hesitate to build houses nearby due to the proposal.

Martin Treacy, a third-party objector, noted landowners signed a 10-year agreement with the company for £350 per year. Inquiry data showed farming would end on 1.2 percent of land in the Owenkillew Ward, eliminating five jobs and cutting the local economy by £49,000 annually.

Submissions addressed effects on the local community and agriculture.