|
|
NEWS
Job losses destined for Ballymena poultry processor
By Chris McCullough
CHANGES in EU legislation dictating how poultrymeat is sold is being blamed by a Ballymena poultry processor as to why it is shedding over 100 jobs.
A spokesperson for O’Kane Poultry Limited confirmed that changes in EU legislation have necessitated a review of company operations, with the possible loss of approximately 140 jobs. The company currently employs around 1,500 people at its Ballymena processing plant.
The spokesperson said: "New EU rules, which come into force in May 2010, will prohibit the sale of previously frozen poultrymeat in the chilled state (unfrozen). All meat previously frozen must, from next May, be sold as frozen.
"This will particularly affect peak demand products such as turkey portions and BBQ. Current UK practice is to build stocks of these products throughout the year, utilising super-chill freezing technology and releasing them for sale under the 'previously frozen' label as seasonal demand grows.
"This spreads production over the year, enabling efficient utilisation of farms and processing facilities. It also ensures a level workload and a predictable workforce, and ensures that sufficient supplies are available when consumers require them.
"Whilst this new legislation will be operationally disruptive for the reasons outlined, it will affect only ten per cent of the total O’Kane Poultry output.
"We want to stress to consumers that any products labelled fresh are fresh and have not been previously frozen. This has always been the case and will continue to be the case.
"Products sold under the 'previously frozen' label were used to ensure adequate supplies at peak demand periods. For example, we would normally be starting to produce BBQ products by January or February to meet summer demand. However, as the new legislation is effective from May 2010 this will no longer be possible."
Full story available in FARM WEEK - see your local newsagent
Click here for previous stories
|
November 27th 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
November 20th 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
