29 November, 2008

EIGHT jobs will be created in Shetland after a new aquaculture business received a £370,000 loan from the local council to help purchase a second hand well boat.

North Isles Marine Ltd will specialise in transporting live fish for harvest, grading and counting, smolt movement and disinfection treatments.

The business, based on the island of Yell, is owned by Gilbert and Marianne Clark, from Burravoe.

The company recently acquired the 32 metre Martin Saele from its Norwegian former owners. The vessel is well known in the salmon industry and has been operating in Shetland waters for the past 10 years.

Mr Clark, the master of the vessel, said he was delighted with the financial backing which allowed him to start trading.

"The vessel will be available predominantly to provide well boat services to Shetland and Scottish salmon producers and ensure that fish transported reach their destination, quickly, efficiently and in prime condition," he said.

General manager of industry body Shetland Aquaculture, David Sandison, said it was good to see a local company seeking business opportunities in one of Shetland's main industries.

"It is very positive to see a Shetland-owned company looking for opportunities to provide essential services to the salmon industry. Rather than contract in these services we should always look closer to home and encourage this type of development," he said.

Shetland Islands Council is in the position to give loans to local industry through income the authority generates by operating the oil harbour at the Sullom Voe oil terminal.