New board members sought for abattoir

Recruitment process now open

People capable of delivering a long-term strategic plan for the Island's abattoir are being sought to join the board of the Isle of Man Meat Company.

Recruitment opens today (11 March) for applications for a chair and non-executive directors.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says the company is at a pivotal moment and a significant transformation programme is already underway with a clear focus on improving production, sales and commercial performance, and on reducing reliance on government subsidy.

The troubled meat plant is the only facility of its kind on the Island providing the link between farmers and consumers and a viable route to market for locally reared animals.

Chief Officer Tim Cowsill said: “The Island's meat plant is strategically important to the Island's Agriculture sector; it sits at the heart of DEFA's Agricultural Strategy and Food Security Plan and is crucial to the Island's ability to produce and supply its own meat.

“This is a business in the middle of a real and ambitious transformation and the people who join this board will play a direct role in shaping its future.

"I would like to thank the current board for their commitment and for stepping in to support the plant during a difficult time of transition.”

Applications from people interested in joining the Isle of Man Meat Company Board must be received before midnight on Sunday, 29 March.