Bakkafrost Scotland confirms closures

Bakkafrost Scotland – a leading producer of farmed salmon – has announced that the temporary closure of two sites in the Western Isles will be extended. The company announced that the majority of the salmon processed at its Marybank and Arnish sites have been harvested, and following this there will be little to no activity at these locations for the next 18 months.

The decision, according to Bakkafrost, was made in order to secure the future of its business and remaining staff.

“This is grave blow for the Marybank employees, some of whom are long-serving and skilled staff, and the island economy. I have spoken to the company this week and realistically it does not look likely that the mothballed plant will be re-opened,” said Torcuil Crichton, Western Isles MP, as reported by STV.

“Bakkafrost have given an assurance that the 80 plus fishfarm site jobs in the Western Isles are secure but I urge HIE and the Scottish Government and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar to have a co-ordinate a response to find alternative employment for the workers and to help maintain the fishfarm sector in the islands,” he added.

A spokesperson for Bakkafrost Scotland stated that the company intends to start a period of collective consultation for those who are affected by the loss of jobs created by the closures.

“This is clearly a significant blow to Bakkafrost employees and their families, as well as to Stornoway where this is a very important employer,” said minister for employment and investment Tom Arthur.

“Our Partnership Action for Continuing Employment team will offer its full support to any employees who may be facing redundancy,” he concluded.