The SSPO and its members have anticipated that the likelihood of reduced staff, combined with disruption to fish processing and reduced access to markets will mean that fish may have to be kept in the water for longer, with subsequent impacts on monitoring, fish health and fallowing.
 

A statement released by SEPA explains that the organisation: “recognises that the consequences of the outbreak may mean it is not possible for operators to comply fully with their permit conditions at all sites for reasons beyond their control. SEPA will take account of the challenges faced by operators in its approach to compliance assessment and enforcement during this exceptional period.”

Concession to the sector include a relaxation of rules concerning fish health monitoring, fallowing and biomass limits.