Outcry saves Daybreak Foods

PIC: APPOINTS A NEW BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND PLEDGES R200M IN ADDITIONAL FUNDING

- Adriaan Kruger

It took a public outcry and the killing of thousands of starving chickens to get people to act against years of poor management at Daybreak Foods, the large poultry producer owned by the Public Investment Corporation (PIC).

Complaints to the National Council of SPCAs (NSPCA) about starving chickens eating each other finally prompted intervention in April.

The NSPCA said it had laid criminal charges against the then directors of Daybreak Foods following the "large-scale animal welfare disaster that has captured global attention".

"In this catastrophic failure, that has sent shockwaves throughout the world, more than one million birds were subjected to extreme neglect, resulting in widespread suffering and death.

"Following extensive on-site investigations, the NSPCA uncovered overwhelming evidence of gross negligence, systemic mismanagement, and a complete abdication of responsibility by Daybreak's leadership. These failures were not only inhumane but criminal in nature, prompting the NSPCA to take legal action.

"We will now work closely with the SA Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority to pursue justice on behalf of the animals that suffered," said the NSPCA.

Business rescue

Since the problems came to light in May, the PIC has appointed a new board of directors and pledged more than R200 million in additional funding.

It said it was "deeply disturbed" by reports of culling and cannibalism among the poultry stock at Daybreak Foods' farming operations.

Despite being the sole owner of Daybreak Foods, the PIC distanced itself from responsibility.

"The board and management of Daybreak are responsible and accountable for the operations and finances of the company," it said, adding that it would nevertheless continue to support Daybreak and had provided capital to ensure the company's liquidity.

Daybreak Foods was placed under business rescue on 20 May.