New type of licence proposed

"This will strengthen the competitiveness of both the farming industry and the supply industry," said Norway's Minister of Fisheries, Elisabeth Aspaker.

The main objectives of the proposal are to contribute to the increased restructuring and innovation for the whole industry and for any new methods to be transparent so the entire industry can benefit from any technological developments.

The licences will be granted for up to 15 years with an opportunity to convert to commercial licences after a certain time and fee.

The fee will be based on either the market price at the time the licence was allocated or at a fixed price on the date of conversion.

When determining the fixed price one must expect that there will be deduction for risk and investment costs.

"There is an urgent need to develop new ways to farm fish in order to solve the environmental challenges. This requites large investment and complex project phases that the current system of research and development licences is not equipped for," explains Aspaker.

 A hearing will be conducted and a decision will be made by 20th August.