Measures on way to ensure clean livestock at slaughter

A formal clean livestock policy (CLP) for sheep will be introduced shortly, after the Department of Agriculture warned that current arrangements for clean livestock are not functioning as effectively as required.

The sheep CLP will be broadly similar to the bovine equivalent, which has operated at slaughter premises since 1998, and which is underpinned by EU and national regulations.

“Based on recent evaluation by DAFM of sheep carcase hygiene in slaughter plants, it is clear that there is a need to significantly improve performance in relation to the cleanliness of incoming animals, to ensure the continuation and expansion of this trade,” said a department spokesperson.