MINISTERS MUST STREAMLINE AQUACULTURE RED TAPE

MINISTERS MUST STREAMLINE AQUACULTURE RED TAPE - LIB DEMS

November 20, 2008 12:00 AM

Jim Hume MSP, MSP for the South of Scotland and Environment Spokesperson, has urged the Scottish Government to streamline red tape in Scotland's aquaculture sector.

The MSP has also called on Ministers to work constructively with other European nations to develop a skilled aquaculture workforce and ensure the best possible support for the industry.

Commenting after a debate in the Scottish Parliament, Mr Hume said:

"Worldwide demand for fish and shellfish is growing exponentially. Liberal Democrats want to ensure that the Scottish aquaculture industry maximises the opportunities this presents.

"The Government must take urgent action to streamline regulation and red-tape surrounding the industry, which can often be difficult for smaller businesses. Regulations must be fair and fit for purpose as well as responsive to the needs of the farmed fish and shellfish industries without compromising the aquatic environment.

"Action should also be taken to encourage the development and retention of a skilled and qualified workforce. Scotland can learn from its competitor nations in the development of a genuinely sustainable and profitable aquaculture industry of which we can all be proud.

The MSP continued:

"A report on aquaculture in the Solway indicated potential yields for shellfish possible production to be in the region of around 13,000 tonnes of oysters or 19000 of mussels. As with aquaculture elsewhere in Scotland, realising potential will depend on the degree to which it can exist in harmony with other marine use, regulations and environmental designations.

"I would like to hear from the Cabinet Secretary what work is ongoing in the Solway and I hope that that's a conversation with him which will continue well after today."

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

The full text of Jim Hume's successful amendment as follows: