Swinney’s aquaculture plans ‘don’t address regulatory challenges’

Scotland’s salmon farmers are still being hindered by red tape, three years after an independent review recommended regulatory reform in the sector.

Salmon Scotland chief executive Tavish Scott urged the Scottish government to do more to encourage sustainable growth and to provide better resources for planning departments.

While welcoming First Minister John Swinney’s plans to improve the consenting process for aquaculture developments located between three and 12 nautical miles from the coast, announced in the Programme for Government yesterday, Scott said the move did little to help farmers operating closer to shore.

Inefficient

"The Scottish Government’s plans to streamline the approval process for offshore aquaculture developments show they understand the current system is inefficient.

"However, this focus will not address the challenges faced by farmers closer to shore, who are eager to invest and support coastal communities.

"Three years after the [Russel] Griggs review, we’re still waiting for real change. Without it, we can’t create the skilled local jobs our sector can offer.

"Planning departments also need proper funding so decisions can be made faster, not just for salmon farming, but for other sectors too."

Investment

The First Minister also announced an additional £5 million investment in Scotland’s food and drink strategy to drive growth, along with a further £5m to support food processing and marketing.

Scott added: "We stand ready to work with ministers to ensure the new funding helps communities and supports Scotland’s most valuable food export.

"We want to grow and support the economy. Now we need the government to cut the red tape and help make that happen."

Scotland’s salmon sector supports 12,500 jobs in Scotland and generates £760m for the local economy.