19 December 2017
A new Strategic framework for fish health will ensure sustainable Scottish 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.”
