As legislation to make CCTV cameras mandatory in slaughterhouses in England to safeguard animal welfare starts its journey through Parliament, plans for the Humane Slaughter Association’s (HSA) seminar for the meat and livestock industry to discuss the animal welfare implications of the implementation and use of CCTV in abattoirs gathers pace.

The new legislation will come into effect from May this year, once it passes through Parliament, at which point businesses will have six months to comply. The penalty for failing to comply will be an enforcement notice to the business or prosecution.

HSA’s Chief Executive Dr Robert Hubrecht said: “CCTV is one way of monitoring animal handling in slaughterhouses, but much depends on how it is used, and it can only be a part of the total effort needed to maintain high welfare standards. The HSA looks forward to working with industry as this initiative moves forward.“

Speakers from industry, DEFRA, enforcement, research and technology installation companies will be presenting at the HSA’s one day seminar on 9 May 2018 for the meat and livestock industry to discuss the animal welfare implications of the implementation and use of CCTV and other technology in abattoirs.

The seminar is aimed at all those associated with animal welfare at slaughter, eg animal welfare officers, veterinary surgeons, meat inspectors, food business operators, slaughter personnel, lairage workers, enforcement officers and legislators.

The seminar is being held at the Jurys Inn, Castle Donington and the day includes lunch. Those wishing to attend are advised to book early as places are limited. For further information and to register, please contact the HSA or book online here.

As reported by the HSA