A pork processing plant in Angus has been forced to close for two weeks after it was discovered that a Covid-19 outbreak had occurred among staff members.
The Quality Pork Processors (QPP) factory has had 19 cases of Covid-19 linked to factory workers.
All affected workers have been put on furlough and arrangements have been made to contract trace and self-isolate those who are required to under Covid-19 guidelines.
A statement released by QPP said: “The decision has been made as a result of the impact of Covid-19 on our workforce and the high level of absenteeism at the site which has made maintaining safe operations extremely difficult.
All employees are now being treated as close contacts of a number of team members who have received positive test results during the past week.
“All affected colleagues are being fully supported to self-isolate in line with government guidelines, and we are working closely with public health authorities, Scottish government and farmers to help manage the situation.”
Andy McGowan of the Scottish Pig Producers, supported the decision by QPP to close the plant:
The Brechin facility is key for the longer sustainability of the Scottish pig industry and to ensure livestock does not have to travel long distances.
“We will work with the QPP Board in planning for the reopening of the facility as soon as possible to limit the impact on animal welfare for our farmers.”
