The CEO of Salmon Scotland, Tavish Scott, has raised concerns about the targeted attacks on the farmed salmon industry by what he describes as “extreme activists.” Speaking before MSPs who are conducting an inquiry into salmon farming, Scott highlighted the ongoing campaign to discredit and shut down the sector. This comes in the midst of increased fish mortalities on farms, sparking worries about animal welfare and environmental impacts. Despite the challenges, Scott pointed out that survival rates in salmon pens at sea this year have been the best in five years.
In a direct criticism of anti-farming campaigners who often engage in covert filming at facilities, Scott lamented the abuse and intimidatory tactics faced by salmon workers from activists. Record-breaking numbers reveal that 17.4 million salmon died on farms in 2023, surpassing the previous year’s figures of 17.2 million mortalities. The industry attributes these high mortalities to external factors, including those related to climate change. On the other hand, campaigners argue that the conditions in cages are harsh, leading to disease outbreaks and parasite infestations.
The ongoing inquiry into the salmon sector follows a previous investigation in 2018 that called for urgent action to address ecological and welfare issues surrounding industrial fish farming. Recently, a west coast farm in Dunstaffnage faced accusations of a “cover-up” after footage emerged of the disposal of tons of dead fish ahead of an MSP fact-finding visit. However, Scottish Government inspectors have stated that they have no concerns regarding the company’s actions.
Scott dismissed the claims made by Animal Equality UK as part of a deliberate and orchestrated campaign by anti-salmon farming activists to derail the committee’s focus on the changes in Scotland’s salmon farming sector since 2018. He condemned the abusive behaviour and intimidatory tactics employed by extreme activists against aquaculture workers and emphasised the importance of supporting the industry, which is a vital contributor to the economy.
Farmed Scottish salmon is the UK’s top food export, generating nearly £600 million in revenue last year and sustaining numerous jobs. Dr Ralph Bickerdike, head of fish health at Scottish Sea Farms, defended the industry’s practices, stating that the removal of 250 dead fish at Dunstaffnage was part of routine procedures with no attempt to conceal the operation. In response, Abigail Penny, executive director of Animal Equality UK, called attention to the public outcry over the footage and raised concerns about regulatory oversight.
The diverging perspectives on the farmed salmon industry highlight a contentious issue that continues to provoke debate between industry representatives, activists, and regulatory bodies. The outcome of the ongoing inquiry may have significant implications for the future of salmon farming in Scotland and its broader impact on the environment, animal welfare, and the economy.