Shetland salmon jobs 'at risk'

Fish farming is crucial to Shetland's economy

More than 300 jobs could be lost in Shetland's salmon industry over the next two years, farmers are warning.

The islands' Farmers Association held a conference in Lerwick on Thursday to discuss the industry's future.

With the recent collapse of four companies on the islands, salmon farming is in a critical state.

Millions of pounds of public investment have been lost and industry leaders are determined to restore confidence.

About 150 delegates gathered to discuss Shetland's position in the global market place.

Poor prices

They heard about plans to diversify into other farmed species like cod, halibut and mussels.

Delegates also considered ways of adding value to processed fish before it leaves the islands for selling.

Fish farming is crucial to the Shetland economy and employs about 1,200 people.

In January, Bressay Salmon became the fourth company in three months to call in the receivers because of rising debts and poor prices for fish.

Industry observers in Shetland have predicted that more companies will go into receivership in the near future as the industry shrinks and adapts to global market conditions.