Shetland Salmon Farming Creating Jobs – Fishupdate.com

Shetland Salmon Farming Creating Jobs Fish Farming Today Published:  30 October, 2002

SHETLAND Salmon Farmers’ Association has announced its direct employment and industry related employment statistics for 2001 with figures showing an overall increase of 10 per cent on the previous year from 1,046 to 1,147.

The direct employment statistics have remained level, while employment in ancillary industries has shown a significant increase, which accounts for the overall 10 per cent rise.

The association’s general manager, David Sandison said the figures were very much as expected: “The industry has managed to retain a consistent level of employment, with workers having more opportunities to diversify and learn new skills in different aspects of the farming process, such as the operation of computerised feeding systems.”

Mr Sandison also pointed out that areas, which have a direct association with the industry – such as processing, packing, quality control, engineering, net services, diving services and haulage – are showing a steady increase.

He underlined the significance of salmon farming to the economic growth and employment in Shetland and how important the location and surrounding environment is perfect for growing healthy, quality fish, and added: “We have taken steps to ensure that this quality is maintained and that the environment in which it is created is well protected. Thanks to the skills of salmon farmers in Shetland, progress continues to be excellent on both fronts.”