Alan Bannon
Written 10 posts
Challenging advice for fishermen expected
28th June 2019
Fisheries Secretary Fergus Ewing comments on the joint recommendations for landing obligations which will come into effect in 2020. Mr Ewing said: Fishermen across the country will be aware of the imminent publication of advice which could have a major bearing on what species they can catch, and in what quantities in the coming year….
In the news: report on land ownership
20th March 2019
You may have read in the news today that the Scottish Land Commission have published a report on the concentration of land ownership in Scotland. The report was commissioned by the Scottish Government, with the intention of helping to inform the discussion around what impact high concentrations of ownership in the hands of individuals or…
Brexit impact on Scotland’s rural economy
13th March 2019
For the whole of the Scottish Parliament’s lifetime, the rural economy has benefitted from our membership of the EU. Yet, with only 17 days from potentially leaving the EU, we still do not know if we leave with a deal or not. When and if we leave the EU, it is clear that whatever deal…
“Tariff-free trade only viable option for Scottish seafood” – Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing
10th December 2018
“As the deadline to Brexit ‘D-day’ approaches, we’re gradually beginning to get a clearer picture on what the various scenarios could mean for Scottish industry. “Some of those arguing the case for leaving the European Union have been keen to reassure UK business that the inevitable downturn or loss in trade to the European market…
St Andrews Day – 12 months as Scotland’s National Chef, by Gary Mclean
30th November 2018
A year ago I was offered the position of Scotland’s first National Chef. This was a brand new role in Scotland but as soon as I was offered the position I gladly accepted. Why wouldn’t I want to be at the forefront of something I love and am passionate about? Being National Chef to…
In the news: REC Committee report on salmon farming
27th November 2018
On Tue 27 Nov the Scottish Parliament’s Rural Economy and Connectivity Committee published its report on Salmon Farming in Scotland Here’s what Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing had to say about it: “While we will carefully consider the committee’s recommendations, a number of sustainability issues identified in its report are already being addressed through the…
In the news: £1.3 million commitment to aquaculture
14th November 2018
£48 million freshwater hatchery opened near Oban Public Finance Minister Kate Forbes was in the news today as she visited Barcaldine to officially open Scottish Sea Farms’ (SFF) new £48 million freshwater hatchery – which is intended to be a centre of excellence for fish farming. The Scottish Government, through it’s enterprise agency Scottish Enterprise,…
Towards a Greener Scotland: Recycle Week and Household Waste Statistics
25th September 2018
With the introduction of new policies and abolition of others, recent years have seen Scotland approach its war on waste with warrior-like determination. From shopping bags to drinking straws, we’re continuing to siphon out some of the most damaging habits of today’s disposable culture to help protect our environment, wildlife and planet. Recyle Week…
Environmental news round-up
19th September 2018
It’s been a busy past few weeks for Scotland’s environmental and rural agenda. A number of events, visits and strategies have been taking place in a combined effort to address animal welfare, climate change and environmental damage in Scotland. Further efforts to grow Scotland’s venison sector have also been introduced. Here is our round up…
Europe Day – Rural Secretary Fergus Ewing
9th May 2018
Across Europe today, thousands of people are taking part in visits, debates, concerts and other events to mark the annual Europe Day. It’s a celebration of the European Union, at a time when there is more focus on our relationship with that union than any time, since the UK joined in 1973. And of course,…