Isles Labour MP Torcuil Crichton commented on the situation, calling it a “grave blow” for the employees and the island economy.
Bakkafrost Scotland has announced plans to potentially shut down its salmon processing facilities at Marybank and Arnish near Stornoway, resulting in the loss of approximately 80 jobs.
The Faroese-owned company stated that the closures would be temporary but extended, citing minimal activity at the facilities for the next 18 months as the majority of fish were harvested in the first part of the year. The board has proposed the move as a measure to future-proof the business and secure the remaining staff across Scotland.
Bakkafrost Scotland said it would begin a period of collective consultation with those potentially affected and hopes to complete this process in the coming weeks.
Western Isles SNP MSP Alasdair Allan expressed concern, noting that Bakkafrost is one of the largest employers in the area. “Losing so many jobs would be devastating,” he said, adding that production at Marybank could be suspended until at least 2027.
He said he had been reassured there would be no job losses at the company’s fish farms across the Western Isles.
Isles Labour MP Torcuil Crichton also commented on the situation, calling it a “grave blow” for the employees and the island economy. “Realistically, it does not look likely that the mothballed plant will be reopened,” he said.
The proposed closures mark a significant challenge for the local community, with broader economic implications for smaller local businesses.
