Call for support to small-scale local abattoirs

A north MSP has championed the case for small-scale local abattoirs and called on Scotland's rural economy secretary to support them.

Gail Ross, the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, has written Fergus Ewing asking for subsidies for such abattoirs to be included in new agriculture legislation.

Mrs Ross, who has been working to support a group of crofters and farmers in Caithness to achieve a sustainable and viable facility in the county, said that local abattoirs shorten the food chain and provide local employment.

“I have written to the cabinet secretary, Fergus Ewing, to ask that subsidy for small-scale, local abattoirs be considered as part of the new Agriculture (Retained EU Law and Data) (Scotland) Bill," she explained.

“I am keen to ensure that in the future enterprises of this nature can be sustainable and effective for our local communities. I have recently spoken to someone that runs a community abattoir who tells me that they have to employ someone full-time to apply for grants.

"I’m keen to see a more streamlined solution which will support our industry effectively.

“Given that there are huge animal welfare and carbon footprint concerns over getting beasts to slaughter, small-scale abattoirs are vital to shorten the food chain and ensure local employment.”

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