Message from the Minister
A message to the industry from Rural Economy Minister Fergus Ewing
IAM immensely grateful for the hard work of those in the aquaculture sector who continue to provide Scottish salmon and trout for the nation. Food production is something we should never take for granted, but it is only possible because of all the people working on fish farms and throughout the supply chain.
The spread of Covid-19 presents an unprecedented global public health crisis and responding to it is a priority for the Scottish government. Significant measures have been taken to curtail the spread but these have serious implications for all sectors of the Scottish economy.
Readers already know that Covid-19 is having a profound impact on all aspects of Scottish life, with us all making changes to our lives that would have been unimaginable only a few weeks ago.We need to respond in new ways and be flexible, adaptable and ready to react to challenges as they arise.
The Scottish government is working flat out to put in place appropriate support to aid our hard-pressed businesses and we understand that this situation follows of a period of significant wider challenges, threatening the viability of many aquaculture firms.
And we know also that this sector offers highly skilled jobs and livelihoods in some of our most remote and fragile rural communities.
My message to businesses large and small is that we know this is difficult, we know times are hard, and we will do everything we can to help you.
The UK government has put in place a scheme to support self-employed workers, which is to be welcomed.
Industry leaders have told me that the recent announcement by the chancellor to support up to 80 per cent of employee salaries will be a big help, but this could come too late for many businesses, if fears of no payment until June are realised.
We are working with key aquaculture representatives to ensure the sector remains viable and that there continue to be jobs and livelihoods once this pandemic ends.
Measures we are taking include looking at how we can develop the domestic market for products like farmed fish and shellfish while maintaining crucial export markets wherever possible.
I recognise that the consequences of this pandemic may mean it is difficult for the sector to comply fully with certain conditions at sites for reasons beyond their control. For example, the timing of harvest may need to be postponed which may impact on conditions for the maximum biomass held on site.
We are actively working with you to ensure farmers meet their statutory obligations such as animal health and welfare. It is important that operators continue to engage with us so they are prepared appropriately and taking all reasonable steps to remain in compliance with Scotland’s current regulatory framework wherever possible.
Times of crisis often bring out the best in people and our aquaculture industry is no exception. It is heartening that businesses are stepping in to support their local communities with offers of hand sanitisers, PPE, vehicles and much more.
Together, we will overcome this adversity and ensure Scottish aquaculture can continue to play a leading role in our food and drink success story.
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