Vets welcome Scottish Government’s action on aquaculture

BVA and the Fish Veterinary Society (FVS) welcome the new Scottish Government Strategic Framework for Fish Health, as work begins on measures to improve the health of farmed fish.

Ronnie Soutar, FVS President, will represent the two veterinary organisations at the first meeting of the Strategic Framework working group being held in Edinburgh today.

Ahead of the meeting, the FVS President said: “Fish health and welfare are crucial to ensure sustainable Scottish aquaculture and the role of vets in minimising the impact of endemic and emerging diseases, and in acting as advocates for animal welfare, is as important in fish farming as in all other livestock production. 

“We look forward to working together with Scottish Government and industry to develop a strong framework that will underpin legislation and guide best practice.”

Melissa Donald President of BVA Scottish Branch added: “The importance of aquaculture to Scotland’s agri-industry cannot be underestimated, ranking as Scotland’s top food export and worth in excess of £650 million to the economy each year, so the Scottish Government’s focus on this sector is most welcome – ensuring robust and improved health and welfare standards as we head towards Brexit.”