Happy Christmas

YOU wait all year for a report on salmon farming and then two come along at once. While the industry in Scotland was wondering if Holyrood’s Rural Economy and Connectivity (REC) committee would ever publish the findings from its inquiry, launched in 2017, SEPA (the Scottish Environment Protection Agency) came out with its review of the sector. Now that the dust is settling on both, all involved in salmon farming, including those in the rural communities where it takes place, will be looking forward to scrutinising the proposals and ensuring they encourage much needed growth. SEPA has been conducting a public consultation around the country, and the REC recommendations will be the subject of a parliamentary debate, expected early in the New Year.

Although reactions are wide ranging, even within the industry (as you will see in this issue), there seems to be a willingness among producers and suppliers to embrace changes that will enable expansion - sustainably, of course - so long as these do not curtail existing successful business operations.

For now, though, it’s time for a well earned rest. Everyone at Fish Farmer would like to thank our readers, advertisers and contributors for continuing to support the magazine, and we wish you all a very happy Christmas.