The Centre was the first port of call for the First Minister on his whistle-stop tour of Shetland, and he was given an introduction to a cross section of activities undertaken to support the development of the islands’ fisheries and aquaculture industries.

Commenting, Mr Salmond said: “Shetland’s success is based on its relationship with the sea and the islands are undoubtedly surrounded by some of the world’s most productive fishing waters. It is for these reasons that I felt it was appropriate to visit the NAFC Marine Centre.

“Since the Centre was established 16 years ago, it has expanded its activities to achieve a remarkable reputation as an expert in all things marine. It has built a fine track record in qualifications and course completions but, confirmed by what I’ve seen, has so much more to offer. It has a top class facility in SSQC Ltd and is helping to nurture the next generation of Shetland fishermen. The simulator itself is a very impressive teaching resource.

“My Government is working hard to ensure that the young people who come through these doors will join a fishing industry with a bright future. There will be ongoing challenges facing the marine industry but with the work I’ve seen at the Centre there’s a great deal to be positive about. I wish the NAFC Marine Centre all the best for the future, particularly in establishing itself as a centre of marine excellence.”

At the Centre’s hatchery, Mr Salmond met with fisheries biologist Chevonne Laurenson who spoke briefly about her work and took the opportunity to point out the variety of species on view in the tanks. He then discussed the Shetland Regulating Order and the Centre’s shellfish stock survey with shellfish biologist Dr Beth Leslie.

The next stop on the tour was the benthic laboratory, where section leader of Marine Farm Services Alan Harpin and section leader of Analytical Services Niall O’Rourke presented an overview of the services offered by Shetland Seafood Quality Control Ltd. Mr Salmond was able to view organisms from the sea and find out more about the tests available for classifying shellfish harvesting sites.

Peter Dryburgh, director of the NAFC Marine Centre, explained: “The mussel industry is very important to Shetland – particularly the peripheral areas – producing 55 per cent of Scotland’s production.

“The work that we do for the Food Standards Agency is also extremely valuable for us because of this growth in the local mussel industry. With a UKAS accredited laboratory we are now – after many years as a sub-contractor – a contractor in our own right."

A visit to a classroom of Merchant Navy officer cadets with head of school Jan Rigden gave Mr Salmond an insight into this important arm of the NAFC Marine Centre.

Next, Mr Salmond took the helm of a virtual vessel in the Centre’s state-of-the-art simulator where he steered it into Scalloway Harbour. He then visited the engineering workshop with engineering section leader Duncan Kidson.

Finally, the First Minister addressed a gathering in the foyer which included NAFC trustees, staff and students.

www.fishupdate.com is published by Special Publications. Special Publications also publish FISHupdate magazine, Fish Farmer, the Fish Industry Yearbook, the Scottish Seafood Processors Federation Diary, the Fish Farmer Handbook and a range of wallplanners.

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