Wishart responds to growing salmon exports to Asia

Responding to news that Scottish salmon exports to Asia have doubled to £24 million in the first quarter of this year, according to new figures, and amid controversial proposals by the Scottish Government to implement Highly Protected Marine Areas, which would not allow fishing or salmon farming in 10% of Scottish seas, Scottish Liberal Democrat and Shetland MSP, Beatrice Wishart said:

“Scottish salmon is a high quality, low carbon protein source that has clear demand in markets at home and abroad.

“The sector employs many workers up and down Scotland’s coast, benefitting local economies, residents and many other jobs along the supply chain are maintained with the success of salmon.

“Our coastal and island communities are vulnerable to depopulation so having well-paid skilled jobs in these areas is critical.

“Highly Protected Marine Area proposals threaten communities with the possibility of salmon farms being forced to move and decreasing fishing areas.

“Shetland is a big contributor of Scotland’s salmon success.

“Voices across the country have raised concern about the Scottish Government’s proposals for Highly Protected Marine Area proposals and their impact on aquaculture.”

ENDS