This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Fish farming looks to the future
19/04/2004
An advanced salmon harvesting facility opened in Mallaig today has heralded a new era for fish farming inScotland.
First Minister Jack McConnell said that investment in new facilities and new technologies can ensure a healthy and prosperous future forScotland's fish farming industry.
Jack McConnell said:
"Salmon farming is one ofScotland's most important industries. It supports thousands of jobs and is vital forScotland's rural economy. However, like any other industry, salmon farmers, harvesters and processors have to look to the future. To succeed and compete they must adapt to meet the realities of the 21st century global economy.
"It is by investing in new technologies and new techniques that Scottish salmon farming companies can continue to lead the world. Marine Harvest have recognised this - they have realised that they must act today to secure the industry of tomorrow. The challenge is for others to follow their lead."
The First Minister was speaking as he officially opened Marine Harvest's new state of the art harvesting facility in Mallaig. Working with the most advanced well-boat in the world, the new plant can harvest and transport around thirty thousand salmon a day. The fish from Mallaig reaches markets and customers around the world.