A VEGAN animal rights organisation has criticised a decision to rehome 51 Jersey cows with existing dairy herds around the Island.
The Animal Justice Project said it was deeply saddened that the Blanc Pignon herd would not be transferred to Norfolk, despite a sanctuary offering to rehome the breed.
Blanc Pignon Farm at La Haule ceased production of all dairy and meat products at the start of February, citing its increasingly small scale of operation and the resulting inability to remain financially sustainable in a rapidly evolving dairy industry.
The decision meant the 51 cows needed new homes.
A statement from Blanc Pignon Farm said: “All of the dairy animals have been placed with existing dairy herds within Jersey, ensuring continuity of care in familiar agricultural environments.
“The rehoming has been carried out with the support and cooperation of members of the local dairy farming community, and the owners are very grateful for the practical assistance and collegial spirit shown by other dairy farmers and partners.”
The firm added that the animal’s welfare is their first priority, and some cattle are being kept on the farm while arrangements are made. The closure is being managed in stages to make sure livestock, staff, and regulatory requirements are dealt with responsibly, while keeping the impact on staff in mind.
“The farm has been part of Jersey’s agricultural landscape for many years, and its closure marks the end of an era. The owners remain grateful to those who have supported the farm over that time, including staff, customers, and others in the dairy farming community”, they added.
Hillside Animal Sanctuary in Norfolk had offered a home for the cows where they would be able to spend the rest of their lives away from the dairy industry.
Commenting on the cows remaining in Jersey with existing dairy herds, The Animal Justice Project said: “Instead of being allowed to live out their natural lives in peace, the cows will be condemned to a life of repeated impregnation, the routine separation of mothers and calves, and, ultimately, slaughter when their milk production declines.
“This is the inherent reality of dairy farming, and it underscores why we believe the public should reconsider supporting it.”
