Scottish Environment minister Stewart Stevenson has been caught up in a row over a controversial large scale farm which a group of islanders say will harm local jobs.
Mr Stevenson apparently declined to meet fishermen and villagers while on a high profile salmon farming industry tour of Lewis and Harris.
Islanders warn the 20 large cages earmarked for a safe navigation channel off the coast of Harris in East Loch Tarbert blocks safe access to important fishing grounds and risks putting the local shellfish fleet out of business.
Other small scale enterprises in the fragile community in the Bays of Harris, like tourism and crafts, say it will be a blot on the unspoilt scenery, deter visitors and affect existing jobs.
Locals are criticising Angus Macmillan of West Minch Salmon and its incoming owner, the Scottish Salmon Company, for failing to consult with islanders over the plans.
The growing controversy forced salmon bosses -
Islanders say they have supported appropriately sized fish farms but the recent trend of enlarging farms close to shore will negatively impact on people’s livelihoods.
Scottish Environment minister Stewart Stevenson spent a lot of time with Scottish Salmon on Thursday and Friday and was accompanied by the firm’s chief operating officer Stewart McLelland who flew to Lewis especially.
But Mr Stevenson refused to met with ordinary islanders and fishermen over the Bay’s issue.
He also declined to speak about the specific case but encouraged dialogue between the salmon farming industry and local communities.
He says the sector is worth nearly £100 million to the Hebridean economy and stressed the importance to get the right balance between the fishing and the salmon farming sectors.
He added: “The bottom line is the environment within both can co-
Stewart McLelland, chief operating officer at The Scottish Salmon Company was furious at the media attention. He refused the opportunity to comment.
Environment minister caught up in salmon farm controversy 8/8/11