The Chinese inspection of Kepak’s Athleague plant in Co Roscommon will go ahead on Wednesday, under a deal brokered in the early hours of the morning.
The inspection failed to go ahead on Monday when cattle could not access the plant.
Some 150 cattle and 1,000 sheep – all sourced from local farmers – will be delivered for slaughter on Wednesday morning, Kepak said following mediation talks.
The company said protestors have agreed to ensure safe entry to the site of both livestock and the Chinese audit team.
Producer organisation
“Kepak have a long track record in dealing with producer organisations (PO) and confirmed that once the protestors have established their own PO as a legitimate entity, the company will be happy to engage with their representatives similarly,” the company said in a statement issued on Wednesday morning.
“Kepak view this as a positive outcome and appreciate the efforts made by the mediator in the interests of the industry,” it continued.
“Should Chinese export approval be achieved, it would be extremely beneficial to local farmer suppliers in the long term as it will provide access to this fast-growing market.”
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