Cabinet approves proposal to ban cattle slaughter

Cabinet has approved a proposal by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa to ban cattle slaughter in the country. 

As a country with an economy based on agriculture, the contribution of the cattle resource to develop the livelihood of the rural people of Sri Lanka is immense, the Government noted, in justifying its decision. 

Various parties have pointed out that the livestock resource required for traditional farming purposes is insufficient due to the rise of cattle slaughter and the insufficient livestock resource is an obstacle to uplift the local dairy industry. This is enabling development of the livelihood of rural people while reducing the substantial amount of foreign exchange attracted towards foreign countries on imported milk powder, it further stated. 

Accordingly, the Government will be taking immediate action to amend the Animals Act No.29 of 1958, the Cattle Slaughter Ordinance No.09 of 1893 and other related laws and regulations passed by the local authorities regarding cattle slaughter which are currently in force the country. Immediate action will also be taken to import the required meat and provide it at a concessionary price for the people who consume beef.

The Government also hopes to Implemente a suitable programme for ageing cattle which cannot be used effectively for agricultural purposes.

The banning of cattle slaughter in the country will be taken subjected such measures.