Abattoir provision and opportunities for mobile slaughterhouses in Scotland by the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission

5. Welfare risks associated with the closure of small/medium sized abattoirs

In this section we consider more broadly some of the potential welfare issues that may result should there be further closure of small/medium sized abattoirs in Scotland.

It is likely that the reduction in the small/medium sized abattoir network would increase journey duration/distance for Scottish livestock, particularly those animals raised on crofts or small holdings as well as certain rare/native breeds (which are not always accepted at large abattoirs). This has the potential to negatively impact animal welfare alongside increasing transport costs for producers. Some stakeholders explained that should their local abattoir close, it would no longer be economically viable to continue to rear livestock. Others were concerned that a lack of available abattoirs may result in an increase of illegal slaughter activity causing a significant risk to animal welfare and food safety.

Evidence from stakeholders emphasized the role of abattoirs in the rural community, with certain facilities being described as ‘underpinning the economy in areas of the Highlands and Islands’. Extensive livestock farming systems comprise a significant proportion of land use in the Highlands and Islands ^[69,70]. Although there are recognised welfare risks with extensive livestock rearing systems, such as thermal stress, predation and certain diseases ^[71], it is widely regarded that providing a more natural environment for livestock is more likely to provide for the behavioural needs of animals and allow them to express natural behaviours, exercise and access comfortable lying areas ^[72-74]. On balance, supporting and encouraging more extensive livestock systems will likely benefit the welfare of Scottish livestock and may encourage the undertaking of regenerative farming.

With regard to the wider community impact, livestock farming supports auxiliary industries such as veterinary services, those providing agricultural machinery or fencing services, whilst local abattoirs provide jobs, locally sourced food and increased footfall to other local business, all of which may be negatively impacted by closure of local abattoirs. This is particularly the case in the Highlands and Islands. Indeed, as our inquiry progressed it became ever more apparent that adequate abattoir provision in this area not only serves to protect animal welfare, it underpins the economy, community, culture, and the continuation of the crofting tradition. As such, it may properly be regarded as an essential service across a significant swathe of Scotland.

Section Summary

Small and medium sized abattoirs are of benefit to animal welfare, the local community and economy, all of which are at risk should there be further closures of these facilities.