Prof Griggs has a strong background in industry and is currently chair of South of Scotland Enterprise as well as the Scottish Government’s independent Regulatory Review Group, who advise and work on better regulation in Scotland.
Professor Russel Griggs, OBE has been appointed to lead the first phase of the review, which aims to highlight what improvements can be made to the environmental, economic and community aspects of aquaculture legislation.
Rural Affairs Secretary, Mairi Goudgeon , said: “Aquaculture is a significant contributor to our rural economy, providing well paid jobs in some of Scotland’s most fragile communities and will be an essential part of our green recovery and transition to net zero.
“The industry also provides a source of home grown, nutritious low carbon protein that is enjoyed at home and abroad.
“However, reports and parliamentary activity over the last few years have made clear that the regulatory landscape is contentious and there is a need for improved efficiency, effectiveness and transparency.”
“I am pleased to appoint Professor Griggs to this role as he brings extensive experience in better regulation from his role as chair of the independent Regulatory Review Group.”
Professor Griggs said: “I very much welcome the opportunity to lead this important review.
“Aquaculture plays a major role in maintaining sustainable rural communities and the economy as a whole and this review is both timely and necessary.
“The industry faces significant challenges and also has its critics, but I will approach this review with an open mind and engage with stakeholders from across the aquaculture spectrum.
“Only by doing this will we be able to deliver improvements in the regulatory landscape in the short-term and identify options for further reform in the longer term.”
Tavish Scott, chief executive of the Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation (SSPO), welcomed the appointment.
He said: “Scotland’s salmon farmers welcome the appointment of Professor Griggs to lead regulatory reform of our sector. We have confidence that he will fulfil his role effectively and professionally given his expertise in the Scottish business landscape.
“Scotland’s salmon farmers have been requesting positive regulatory change for a long time. It would bring Scotland in line with other salmon producing countries like Norway, and therefore improve our industry’s competitiveness.
“It’s about having a regulatory regime that works effectively for salmon businesses, wider society and the government. We want to see better regulation that improves the efficiency of the planning system, not less regulation.
“Today marks the first step in delivering on this important manifesto promise.”
