OIC considers short-term measures to ensure continued abattoir service

Orkney Islands Council and partner agencies are considering what short-term measures may be required to ensure a continued abattoir service in the county.

Today’s announcement that Orkney Meat is to cease production has come as a “serious blow”, particularly for the workforce and the county’s farmers, according to an updated statement from the OIC.

The statement said: “We are involved in continuing talks with the board of Orkney Meat about the situation the company faces.

“With partner agencies, we are also considering what short-term measures might be required to ensure an abattoir service remains available for the farming and food sectors in Orkney. At a later date, we, and partner agencies, will also need to engage with the farming and food sectors to discuss the type of abattoir facilities Orkney requires in the longer term.”

Meanwhile, a report covering the situation at Orkney Meat will be considered by a meeting of the full council on Tuesday.