MPs visit Western Isles salmon farm to explore industry opportunities.
Members of Westminster’s Scottish Affairs Committee visited Loch Erisort salmon farm in the Western Isles as part of a fact-finding mission on Wednesday, December 11. The visit, hosted by Mowi, involved nine MPs, including Patricia Ferguson, Labour MP for Glasgow West and chair of the committee, and Angus MacDonald, Liberal Democrat MP for Inverness, Skye, and West Ross-shire.
The delegation met with Mowi’s local team, including regional manager Don MacLeod and area manager David MacMillan, both from the Isle of Lewis. The MPs were given an overview of the company’s operations, including the salmon production cycle, community contributions, and career opportunities within the sector.
This visit followed a committee session examining the economic benefits of the Scottish salmon industry, with contributions from Salmon Scotland, Mowi Scotland, and Scottish Sea Farms. Mowi employs 163 people in the Western Isles and Skye region, while the Scottish salmon sector as a whole supports 2,500 direct jobs and an additional 10,000 across the supply chain.
Patricia Ferguson highlighted the sector’s importance, stating: “Salmon is a valuable export for the Scottish and UK economy, and the aquaculture sector is an important employer in Scotland’s island communities. During our visit, we learned more about the challenges and opportunities for the sustainable growth of salmon farming.”
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, emphasized the value of the visit, noting:
“The MPs were fully engaged and learned more about the benefits salmon farming brings to Scotland, and what role they can play in supporting the responsible growth of our sector.”
Don MacLeod of Mowi Scotland expressed appreciation for the visit, adding:
“Our teams work hard all year round, in all weathers, and it is appreciated that the committee took time out from their busy schedule to visit.”
The visit also addressed industry challenges, including combating misinformation and discussing future development plans, such as consolidating operations into fewer, larger pens and ongoing investment in Scotland’s salmon farming infrastructure.
Scottish salmon remains the UK’s leading food export, contributing £760 million annually to the economy.
