This is largely the subject of the consultancy of MacPherson (Aquaculture Planner) whose report is in preparation. Some requirements particular to shellfish are given below.
Lack of knowledge of very elementary techniques has been identified as a prime constraint. The priority is for individuals directly involved in the industry to be enabled to see for themselves the methods widely used in France, Spain and Italy, and to be put in touch with equipment manufacturers there. Many of the suppliers of the most useful equipment and materials are small and unlikely to exhibit at international trade fairs. Study tours by active members of cooperatives and shellfish cultivation companies would represent a low cost means of transferring technology to Greece. Such tours should be planned to include national trade fairs, such as the annual one at La Tremblade on the west coast of France. Professional consultants familiar with producers and the trade in those countries should be used to plan the visits.
Broader questions of education for aquaculture are considered by MacPherson.
This has been discussed in section 5. It is seen as a prerequisite to expanding the home market, and vital if a larger industry is to develop based on a well organised export trade. A large industry cannot afford to face disruption of markets by public health scares.
In Greece, most interest in shellfish cultivation is likely to come from fishing cooperatives. Their role and appropriate support for them is considered by MacPherson.
