MSP for Na h-Eileanan an an Iar, has expressed his serious concerns over Bakkafrost’s announcement today that it intends to mothball its fish processing plant in Marybank in the Isle of Lewis. The Faroese-owned plant employs over 80 people directly and is one of the largest single private employers in the Western Isles. Alasdair Allan met directors of the company this afternoon by phone and also took part in a meeting organised by the Comhairle

Bakkafrost have cited a reduction in production volumes for the decision to cease production at the plant until at least 2027. The company had been developing its Applecross site, but due to poor numbers of stocks, Bakkafrost do not believe there are enough fish to keep the Marybank site open. 

However, in an emergency meeting on Thursday morning, Bakkafrost confirmed there would be no job losses at the company’s fish farm sites across the Western Isles despite the major impact on processing.  

Following the announcement, Alasdair Allan MSP commented:

“Obviously this news is devastating for the Isle of Lewis, and it will be a deeply worrying time for the employees of the plant and their families.

“This is one of the island’s largest employers and these job losses will have other knock-on impacts on smaller local business. I fear for the impact this decision could have on the wider economy and community in the islands, and this was my message when I met the company by phone this afternoon.

“I met earlier in the day with both Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Bakkafrost and urged the company to reconsider this decision. I am also writing to the Deputy First Minister and Highland and Islands Enterprise to look into assisting Bakkafrost to potentially recommencing operations at Arnish in future years.

“Importantly, I intend to meet with representatives of the workforce at their earliest convenience to see what more can be done to support workers and their families during this difficult time.”

ENDS.