JERSEY’S abattoir has been operating on extra days to help clear a backlog of animals in time for Christmas after reopening earlier this month.
The building was closed for routine maintenance shortly before Storm Ciarán hit, but suffered extensive damage to its roof, main structure and equipment when gusts in excess of 100mph struck the Island.
Repair efforts were made more complicated by the presence of asbestos, which meant a deep clean of the building was needed before the electrics could be fixed.
Farmers warned that the closure could result in a lack of local meat products on the shelves this Christmas, with the president of the Jersey Farmers Union, Peter Le Maistre, describing the situation as “a big blow” for the industry.
Infrastructure Minister Tom Binet said: “The abattoir opened again earlier this month, earlier than expected, following repairs. It operated on extra days, including through a weekend, to ensure all animals are processed in time for Christmas (the abattoir usually only processes animals on one day a week).
“Staff have been working closely with farmers to prioritise their animals as necessary.”
