The Environment Minister, Paul Wheelhouse, visited the Marine Harvest site to see the progress on the new smolt hatchery. Once completed THE development will be one of the biggest facilities of its kind in the world.
Mr Wheelhouse also took the opportunity to meet with representatives from the China National Cereals, Oils and Foodstuffs Corporation who were visiting Marine Harvest. COFCO are one of Chinas biggest food manufacturers, processors and trading companies.
Mr Wheelhouse said: "Marine Harvest operate to high environmental standards and is committed to growing sustainably in Scotland, therefore Im pleased they are demonstrating this commitment through plans for a world class facility in Lochailort.
"The aquaculture industry makes an important economic contribution, particularly in remote communities such as the Fort William area, bringing investment and jobs to rural Scotland. Indeed, Marine Harvest employed 367 people in Scotland last year.
"Businesses like Marine Harvest deliver high quality seafood products that are highly sought after around the world. New markets are opening up, particularly in the Far East, as demonstrated by this visit from a Chinese delegation.
"I want fish farming to have a long-term future in Scotland, with companies continuing to invest. Thats one of the reasons for the introduction of the Aquaculture and Fisheries Bill. The Bill will support the aquaculture industrys ambitions for sustainable growth, with due regard to the marine environment."
World Leading Fish Farm Facility
SCOTLAND, UK - A new world class facility being built at a fish farm in Lochailort is expected to be finished next year.
by Lucy Towers
