St Catherine Health Department orders closure of slaughterhouse in Glengoffe

A slaughterhouse in Glengoffe, St Catherine, has been closed by the health department due to sanitation and other issues.

Speaking at today’s monthly meeting of the St Catherine Municipal Corporation, Acting Public Health Inspector for St Catherine, Denese Douglas, said the establishment was shuttered yesterday following breaches of the Public Health Act.

"Our inspection revealed that it was not in a sanitary or suitable state to serve members of the public,” she said.

“We are asking the corporation to revoke the butcher's licence," Douglas added.

The name of the establishment was not disclosed.

The establishment, which is located near a police station, has been a source of contention at several municipal meetings.

At today’s meeting, some councillors thanked the health department for addressing the issue.

Councillor Correl Davis of the Mount Industry Municipal Division, in which the slaughterhouse is located, was very vocal on the matter.

"I am very pleased that you have acted decisively in my division in dealing with the issue. It is what those who elected us demand; it is commendable. I hope that the authorities checked the drain, which is located adjacent to the police station," Davis said.

Douglas said a comprehensive check was conducted, which contributed to the decision to issue the closure notice.

- Rasbert Turner

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