Barber Takes the Helm

DEFA Minister Clare Barber has taken the reins as chair of the island’s abattoir after yet another report that highlighted major challenges.

The report indicates a need to review and improve the sales model, increase the throughput of the plant through operational efficiencies and improved training for employees. 

It also highlights a lack of management and financial information and a need to review compliance and governance of the plant. 

Mrs Barber said: ‘The meat plant performs a pivotal role at the centre of both Manx agriculture and the island’s strategic food security policy.  Some key areas for change have been highlighted recently and I have stepped into the role as chair to support the board to address these.  It is important to me, and to our Island, that the plant is able to meet the needs of the industry and function effectively.

‘In the short term there are two key areas of vital importance to be focused on; that the through put of the plant is increased and demand from the agriculture sector is met, as well as ensuring the plant is run effectively and is compliant with industry standards. Graham Crowe has remained as a director of the board, for which I am extremely grateful, as I am to him for his time as chair. The board will be meeting next week to plan for the future and I look forward to some positive changes for the plant in the coming months.’

Graham Crowe, a lifelong farmer, had been acting as interim chair since January.