A NEW framework for the Scottish aquaculture industry should mean a fresh start for fish farmers, still reeling from Europe's decision to scrap anti-dumping measures that prevented cheap Norwegian imports flooding the market.

Environment Minister Michael Russell was on Skye yesterday to launch the strategy designed to give the industry the required focus.

There have been predictions of significant job losses in some of Scotland's most fragile communities as a result of the EU's decision in May, confirmed last month, to lift the minimum import price imposed on Norwegian salmon two years ago.

In the new Strategic Framework for Scottish Aquaculture, Mr Russell is clear that Scottish ministers would be monitoring the Norwegian industry: "The removal of the Minimum Import Price for farmed salmon is of particular concern and if there was any renewed evidence of dumping, then the Scottish Government would argue tenaciously for the introduction of new anti-dumping measures."

The strategic framework outlines five key areas for development to ensure a sustainable and profitable industry. It aims to achieve: healthier farmed fish; an improved system for new developments; fewer escapes from farms; better marketing of farmed fish; and finance for new developments. Flexible ways of working and a new direction for the Ministerial Working Group on Aquaculture are also being proposed.

Mr Russell said: "The renewed framework I am launching today seeks to modernise the sector and build on the strong foundations already in place. Much has changed in the five years since the original framework was published."

David Sandison, secretary of Scottish Salmon Producers Organisation, said: "We welcome the new vision and hope that it will bring greater social, economic and sustainable benefits to farmers and the many remote, rural businesses that are reliant on a successful salmon sector."

Doug McLeod, chairman of the Association of Scottish Shellfish Growers, added: "This is an important initiative which we expect to encourage the more effective utilisation of Scotland's inshore marine resources, particularly in the sector of shellfish cultivation."