A Covid-19 hit abattoir must remain closed until an “independent” review rules it’s safe to reopen.

Ynys Môn MP Viriginia Crobsie insists the 2 Sisters chicken plant on Llangefni must remain closed until a full health and safety audit has been carried.

The Anglesey factory was shutdown for two weeks last Thursday as the number of confirmed coronavirus cases at the plant mounted.

As of Monday, 175 workers tested positive for the virus – with all staff self-isolating during the two week closure.

Mrs Crosbie said: “Although the initial closure of the plant is for a two week period it is vital for the safety of the workforce and of their families, along with the safety of communities across Ynys Môn, that the plant remains closed until an independent health and safety audit is carried out and that all recommended safety measures are implemented.

“The review, and the implementation of improved safety measures, must be assessed by Anglesey County Council, the Health and Safety Executive and Public Health Wales before production recommences.”

Wishing those who have fallen ill or tested positive “a fast and full recovery,” the Tory MP added: “It is also crucial that both the review, and its findings, are completely transparent.

“2 Sisters must communicate with both its employees and with people across our island to assure them that every possible measure is being taken to minimise the risk of another outbreak.”

Last week Rowan Foods in Wrexham confirmed 38 staff had tested positive for coronavirus.

Mrs Crosbie added: “Similar factories across Europe and throughout the world have experienced similar outbreaks and we must not blame the workers for what has happened or seek retribution against the factory.

“The priority must be to support all those affected by this outbreak and to learn the lessons that are required to ensure that the outbreak is contained and not repeated.”

Last week a 2 Sisters spokesperson said it would “not tolerate any unnecessary risks – however small” to staff.

“We have worked in close collaboration in the past week with Public Health Wales, Anglesey Council, the Health & Safety Executive, the FSA and the Unite union who have all offered great advice, scientific knowledge and support, and we thank them for their help and guidance, which has informed this decision.

“Our sole focus now is to ensure we support all our colleagues through this time and look forward to operating safely and securely in 14 days time.”

Anglesey MS Rhun ap Iorwerth confirmed that Ysbyty Gwynedd had not reported a spike in Covid-19 related admissions over recent days.

The Plaid Cymru politician went on to say that he had been in contact with 2 Sisters for several weeks but that the company had been “open” about the steps taken since concerns were initially raised by staff.

“What we need over the next two weeks is assurance that things can be made safe so that the site can re-open,” he added.

“This is a sector that has been shown to be vulnerable worldwide, due to working in close proximity and its so cold in there, an environment which the virus likes.

“But we need assurances now moving forward and I’ll be seeking updates on that as we approach the time that work can resume.

“But essentially, if the Health and Safety Executive can’t be convinced then the site won’t re-open.”