News In Focus
Committee calls for evidence on Aquaculture Bill
25 October 2012
A Holyrood committee has issued its call for evidence on the Scottish Government's Aquaculture and Fisheries (Scotland) Bill.
The Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Committee is seeking views on the general principles of the bill, which aims to ensure that farmed and wild fisheries, and their interactions with each other, continue to be managed effectively with due regard to the wider marine environment.
Particular provisions deal with fish farm management, district salmon fisheries boards and management of salmon fisheries, sea fisheries including marine enforcement powers, and protection of shellfish growing waters, along with general charges and penalties.
Committee convener Rob Gibson MSP said: “The fish farming industry in Scotland is undoubtedly a key pillar of our economy, providing a much needed source of employment in some of our most rural communities, as well being one of Scotland’s most valuable global food exports.
“Preserving Scotland’s seas and rivers is not only critical for our environment but for the communities where freshwater fishing plays a significant role. But do the measures set out in this legislation provide a balance between freshwater fishing and the fish farming industry, and if so is it the right one?”
Responses are invited
by 26 November. The committee will take oral evidence on the bill in late November through to early January 2013.