Barges boost Scots economy

Gael Force will build an initial three feed barges for SSC's sites in the Outer Hebrides, in a deal worth just under £2.5 million. The contract could double in size, as a further three, 200-tonne barges are in the pipeline should SSC obtain a number of further planning permissions. The contracts will see the company’s workforce increase to 200, the highest ever level. The first phase of the SSC deal will see Gael Force deliver and install the SeaMate 200T barges by August. If approved, the second phase will be completed in early 2016. Stewart Graham, Gael Force Group Managing Director, said: “These are among the highest specification 200-tonne feed barges we have built, which demonstrates the level of investment and commitment the Scottish Salmon Company is making to the long-term future of Scottish aquaculture. “It is a huge vote of confidence in the industry and in our workforce. Coming on top of our existing workload, which includes significant orders for other aquaculture companies, we are now operating at full capacity and we have to increase staff numbers and extend work patterns to deal with the demand. The SeaMate 200T feed barges are essentially self-contained floating operational bases for fish farms which can operate in almost any weather and are delivered fully fitted-out with feed silos, operational staff living accommodation and welfare facilities, computer-controlled feed systems, generators, tankage and all electrics, in addition to site-based operational facilities. The high-spec barges also include integrated 10-tonne ensilors, additional compressors, back-up power generation systems and four-line feed systems.