VISIT TO COLONSAY – AQUACULTURE AND THE COMMUNITY WORKING HAND IN HAND

Visit to Colonsay – aquaculture and the community working hand in hand. Mowi’s Ben Hadfield and Tavish Scott of the Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation were pleased to join Mairi Gougeon, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Islands, and Jenni Minto, MSP for Argyll & Bute, on a recent tour about the Isle of Colonsay. Since partnering in 2015, Mowi and the Colonsay Community Development Company have worked together to increase economic and social activity on the island.

Recent developments include year-round employment at Mowi’s local salmon farm, an artisanal fish smokery envisioned by resident Richard Irvine, and the start of a 12-unit affordable housing development representing a £2.4 million investment funded by Mowi, Scottish Government Land Fund, Highlands & Islands Enterprise, Argyll and Bute Council and the hard work of the community including progressive and dedicated landowners.

Mr Hadfield says:

“This is impressive! We are privileged to have played a small part in this vibrant development, and I’m truly impressed by what has been achieved here by the Colonsay community. I was also pleased to end our day joining farm manager Ali Geddes as we toured Ms Gougeon and Ms Minto about Mowi’s salmon farm located off the shores of Colonsay.”

Mr Scott adds:

“Huge thanks to our Scottish Government Minister Mairi Gougeon and local MSP Jenni Minto for the positive discussions at Colonsay on the future of our sector with islanders. Both demonstrate knowledge, understanding and a belief in sustainable fish farming for our future.”