Gamekeepers complain about ‘extreme hardship’

Gamekeepers fear “extreme” hardship due to a lack of government support.

Alex Hogg, chief executive of the Scottish Gamekeeper’s Association, said: “We are receiving emails from members who are in a real panic over shooting, deer forest and game larders being made exempt from the Scottish Government’s business support fund.”

Mr Hogg read one email warning of “extreme financial difficulties”.

One member said that with no deposits they were struggling to pay staff and bills before the start of the shooting season – which may not even happen.

Aberdeenshire West MSP Alexander Burnett said: “These are rates payers just like any other business and deserve the same level of protection as other small enterprises.”

There are also fears selfcatering businesses in the Highlands could go bust as they don’t qualify for help.

Scottish Government measures to help firms include £10,000 grants for small businesses receiving Rural Relief or in the Small Business Bonus Scheme.

But Highlands and Islands Labour MSP Rhoda Grant said the support does not work for everyone.

She says some are worried they do not fit the criteria as they depend on several small income streams and renting out houses is not covered.

This includes crofters who earn some income by renting out a holiday cottage.

Mrs Grant said: “This strict criteria will mean that some people who deserve support are still going to fall through the cracks.”

A Scottish Government spokesman said it is supporting companies with a £2.2 billion package.

Representatives of the gamekeeping industry say members fear there may not even be a shooting season