Norwegian young more upbeat about fish farming

YOUNG  people in Norway are considerably more positive about fish farming than the older population, a survey carried out recently  by the national broadcaster NRK has shown.
The survey was conducted in the Troms and Finnmark regions which are both heavily involved in aquaculture. Just over 67 per cent of those question  in the 18 to 44 age group said they thought salmon farming was good for the country and more than half of those were in the younger 18 to 29 bracket.  This compares with just over 31 per cent in the  65 and over group. This was in contrast to a similar poll carried out in Finmark two years when less than half of young people were in favour of fish farms
When asked if more fish farms should be opened 46 per cent in the 18-44 group said yes, while the figure for those aged over 65 was only 21 per cent.  Some 70 per cent of the older group questioned said the number of fish farms should be reduced, while the figure among young  and early middle aged people was 56 per cent.
Lerøy  farming executive   Stig Nilsen, said the figures confirmed the company\’s own experiences. \”We are seeing a very large increase in the number of young people seeking to study for careers in aquaculture.\” He added. \”Many are contacting my own company looking for career opportunities.
\”We are seeing  a very large increase in the search rate for all studies in aquaculture. Many address directly to companies to come within the industry and find career opportunities, he says.
Two younger people who have recently completed degrees in fisheries and aquaculture at Tromso University, 22-year-old Ingunn Solheim Johnsen and 28-year-old Terje Hansson, told the broadcaster that aquaculture presented exciting career development opportunities.