Fresh start for Scottish aquaculture

The Fresh Start Framework follows a wide-ranging consultation process and sets out plans for a refocused Ministerial Group on Aquaculture. It also includes measures to improve planning and development of fish farms, better marketing of farmed fish, tougher defences against disease and measures to ensure fewer escapes

The Framework will also see the Scottish aquaculture industry further develop its learning culture, for example by encouraging bids from the industry to the European Fisheries Fund for the training and education needs of its workforce.

Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham, who officially launched the framework in Parliament said Scottish aquaculture was a major success story for Scotland and an important asset to the economy. She described it as a lifeline for rural areas and emphasised that primary salmon production generated local wages of over £36 million last year primarily in the Highlands, Shetland, Argyll & Bute, Western Isles and Orkney.

“Our new framework aims to write the next chapter and enhance Scotland's reputation for being at the forefront of sustainable fisheries.

"I am therefore looking forward to chairing the new Ministerial Group which will oversee some very important work that will be used to shape future policy," Cunningham said.

The sub-groups will address: Healthier fish and shellfish; improved systems for licensing aquaculture developments; improved containment; better marketing and improved image; and access to finance.

However, Labour MSP’s, who spoke at the Scottish Government Debate: Importance of Aquaculture to the Scottish Economy yestercday, criticised the strategy for being “a bit thin on action” and said the document was “moving us forward, but lacking in detail.”