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Meat plant explains how bull was able to escape

Picture credit: Manx Radio

Animal was ultimately shot and killed by firearms officers

The Isle of Man Meat Company says it's completed its initial investigation into how a bull was able to escape the site earlier this week.

The animal - described as 'dangerous and agitated' - broke loose into the surrounding area on Tuesday (14 October) and was eventually shot and killed by armed police officers.

Read more HERE.

Isle of Man Meats says preliminary findings indicate that the bull exited a hauliers vehicle situated within the plant yard via a side access panel, which is typically used for livestock inspection during transport.

At the time of the incident, it says the yard was active with vehicle movements, and the main gate was open to facilitate operations, providing an unintended route for the animal to exit the premises.

The bull was spotted making its way towards Quarterbridge before being shot by firearms officers in a field close to Peel Road. 

Afterwards, the Isle of Man Constabulary issued a statement explaining that the animal had become extremely aggressive, putting workers who are experienced in managing cattle at 'significant risk'.

Officers said 'We fully understand the public’s upset with an animal having been dispatched but there was no easy way to contain the bull.' 

Further review

In an update posted this evening (16 October) Isle of Man Meats adds: "Given the unforeseen nature of the event and the sequence of contributing factors, IOMMC has taken the proactive step of referring itself for further review by an independent HSE and animal welfare specialist."

"This referral is part of our commitment to transparency and continuous improvement. We aim to ensure that all applicable regulations and operational practices are reviewed and, where necessary, strengthened to minimise the risk of similar incidents occurring in future."

 

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