Falkland Islanders are calling for a referendum on plans for a massive salmon farm that has divided the 3,500-strong population. Opponents say they have lost confidence in a consultation process they claim is biased towards the industry.
Proposal and Economic Impact
Unity Marine, a joint venture between local fishing company Fortuna and Danish firm F-land ApS, wants to farm 50,000 tonnes of salmon annually in 16 locations. This would be the largest industrial inshore development in the archipelago's history.
An assessment commissioned by the Falkland Islands government suggests that farming 30,000 tonnes annually could add £35m a year to the territory's economy, equivalent to 11% of GDP, and provide 133 jobs.
Opposition and Referendum Call
Salmon Free Falklands (SFF), a group set up by local people to oppose the proposal, argues that a referendum will allow residents to decide once and for all, without fear of further challenge.
"It is then the people who will get to decide what happens in their own country," said Sally Poncet of SFF. She has lost confidence in the consultation process, which began on 7 August and runs until 30 October, claiming that reports commissioned by the government are based on unverifiable data from Unity Marine.
Environmental Concerns
Poncet is concerned that salmon waste would affect kelp, a spawning ground for squid and other wildlife. Louise Cherrie, a former environmental protection authority member from Tasmania, called the reports "bordering on worthless", noting that carrying capacity has not been rigorously determined and regulatory costs are not quantified.
Dr Tom Appleby of the Blue Marine Foundation said it is "extraordinary" that the government is providing reports without independently verified primary data, so littered with disclaimers as to be "meaningless".
Background and Government Response
In 2022, the government initially said no to the salmon farm. Unity Marine then sought a judicial review, leading to a consent order that quashed the decision and outlined the current consultation.
James Wallace of Fortuna said Unity Marine did not apply for a licence but allowed the government time to investigate feasibility, including social, environmental, and economic impacts. He expects a robust environmental impact assessment to answer residents' questions.
A government spokesperson said it is "neither advocating for nor opposing salmon farming" and that reports are to inform public discussion, not provide final approvals. They rejected suggestions that environmental impacts were not clearly presented, noting that the carrying capacity report was for demonstrating the modelling process, not a determination.
