Shellfish crisis fear as virus threatens oysters

SCOTLAND’S oyster stocks are under threat from a disease which has left a trail of devastation across Europe.

The oyster herpes virus has hit supplies of the delicacy in France, Ireland and Jersey, while one case has been identified in south-east England.

Now Scotland’s oyster farmers fear their multi-million-pound-ayear trade could be at risk if the disease spreads north.

Scotland’s shellfish beds have so far remained free of infection, but industry figures admit there is little they can do to counteract the threat as our seas reach their warmest temperatures in August, when the virus seems to thrive.

Last night, Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers chairman Walter Speirs said: ‘The impact in Ireland and France has been devastating. People are losing up to 50 per cent of their stock.’

‘So far Scotland has remained free of the virus and it’s of crucial importance that this remains the case.’

Mr Speirs revealed that he and his members were reliant on a voluntary code for protection from the disease, which is harmless to humans.

He said: ‘There are no legal means by which you can stop someone bringing affected shellfish from Ireland or France to Scotland. Luckily, so far it hasn’t happened.’

Meanwhile, Scotland’s shellfish farmers are looking to capitalise on their virus-free status.

‘There is a shortage of oysters right across Europe,’ said Mr Speirs.

‘Scottish producers would love to grow more to try to fill that gap.’