MSP visits Bonar Bridge enterprise

A Highlands and Islands MSP heard about development plans by Bonar Bridge companies Migdale Smolt Ltd and Migdale Transport Ltd when he visited this week.

David Stewart was invited by the firm’s managing director, Hugh Murray, and technical manager, David Catto, to hear about the company’s history and plans which will mean 49 staff will be employed by the firm by the beginning of next year.

Migdale Smolt Ltd started 30 years ago and produces salmon smolts in freshwater cages which are sold on to fish farms. Rearing takes place at three locations, Loch Merkland, Loch Shin and Loch Damph.

Migdale Transport Ltd moves and handles live fish and will next year take delivery of its new state of the art wellboat to handle in a welfare friendly way, smolt transfers and grading and treatment work with live salmon.

“I was delighted to hear about this family company which has been built up over three decades and which provides jobs for people throughout the Highlands,” said Mr Stewart.

“I was particularly interested in its environmental audits, how it tackles containment, how it refuses to use anti-biotics in its fish rearing process and how it transports Lumpfish and Wrasse to fish farmers to help them clean the salmon of lice.

“It’s good to remember how aquaculture is supporting the region’s economy, especially in remote and rural areas and I wish the company all the best for the future.”

Hugh Murray, said: “It was good to have an opportunity to meet up with David and give him an insight into our operation, and it is encouraging to see his enthusiasm for our aquaculture businesses and taking an interest in our employees future here in Sutherland.”

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