The Scottish Government consulted on how to achieve a sustainable future for aquaculture and freshwater fisheries and ensure the effective management of interactions between the two sectors. The consultation will inform the development of a new Aquaculture and Fisheries Bill, which is planned for introduction in autumn 2012.
Fish and shellfish farming is a growing industry that directly employs more than 1,500 people, with salmon being Scotland’s largest food export. In 2010 150,000 tonnes of farmed salmon was produced, worth around £540 million. Scotland's freshwater fisheries are world famous and their management supports one of the largest wild salmon populations in Europe, while Scottish brown trout fisheries are also an important tourism draw.
Environment Minister Stewart Stevenson said: "Both aquaculture and freshwater fisheries play an important economic and social role in communities throughout Scotland, particularly in remote and rural locations. That’s why the Scottish Government has consulted on new legislation that will aim to ensure both sectors have a viable, long term future.
"Therefore I welcome the strong level of engagement in this consultation, reflecting the desire of the respondents that we have a balanced and proportionate Bill, building on the successes we already have in these sectors. The provisions within the Bill will ensure that farmed and wild fisheries – and their interactions with each other – are managed effectively, maximising their combined contribution to supporting sustainable economic growth.
"I can assure all those who took part that every response has been read and carefully considered. Since the consultation launch we have also engaged with key stakeholders on how the plans might be progressed. We have listened to their feedback and taken account where concerns have been raised.
"Indeed, some of the proposals are challenging and ambitious – but this reflects the Scottish Government’s firm desire for both sectors to succeed. I believe this now gives us the platform for a positive way ahead and I look forward to introducing the Bill to Parliament this autumn."
The consultation concluded on April 13 and generated 1,342 responses, representing a wide cross-section of interested parties – including aquaculture, freshwater fisheries, environmental bodies, voluntary and public sectors, and members of the public.
View the analysis report of the Aquaculture and Fisheries Bill Consultation.
