The Cabildo of Lanzarote, through the Experimental Agricultural Farm and the Insular Agrarian Service, has launched for the first time a specific course on animal slaughter according to the halal rite. The initiative, aimed especially at the Muslim community residing on the island, aims to offer rigorous, updated training that complies with the regulations governing this type of slaughter, ensuring both compliance with religious procedures and the animal welfare and food safety standards required.
The course on Animal Welfare in Slaughter and Related Operations, whose spots were filled in just a few days, was held this week at the Experimental Agricultural Farm facilities. The training, delivered by Yurena Delgado Antúnez, a veterinarian and food safety consultant specializing in slaughter processes and animal welfare, will be certified by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Food Sovereignty, allowing attendees to obtain the Certificate of Recognition of Training and Competence Level in accordance with Regulation (EC) 1099/2009 on the protection of animals at the time of slaughter
The president of the Cabildo and Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Oswaldo Betancort, highlighted the importance of this new step in island management. "I firmly believe in a Lanzarote that integrates and understands its diversity as a strength. This course not only responds to a real need from part of our population, but also reinforces our commitment to an inclusive, respectful, and cohesive island."
Betancort also emphasized that the remodeling of the Insular Slaughterhouse allows for the incorporation of new uses and the improvement of public services. In this regard, he pointed out that "after the works, we have more modern, safe, and versatile facilities. It was the right time to also advance in the attention to the different communities that make up Lanzarote and La Graciosa. Together we build community, and from the Cabildo we must facilitate that each person can exercise their cultural and religious practices with guarantees and technical support."
The course content covered both the fundamentals of the halal procedure and the proper handling of animals, the current regulations and specific conditions for slaughter in accordance with Islamic tradition.
