One of the biggest meat processors in the country is temporarily closing one of its plants after a cluster of COVID-19 cases was confirmed there.

Dawn Meats closed its plant in Kilbeggan, County Westmeath yesterday after four cases were confirmed.

In a statement, the company said the decision was taken out of an abundance of caution and noted that the four cases reflect less than 2% of staff at the plant.

It said no production was scheduled over the next four days as a result of the Bank Holiday and no decision has yet been made on reopening next week.

“Dawn Meats takes the health, safety and welfare of employees, suppliers, contractors and visitors extremely seriously,” it said.

“We have implemented a detailed series of measures to manage risks associated with Covid-19 and to maintain social distancing in our facilities in line with procedures recommended by the HSE and other Government agencies.”

It said the closure will not affect the company’s supply-line and noted that it is continuing to receive cattle from farmers at its other plants around the country.