Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has written to Nick Halfhide, Chief Executive of Nature Scot, in relation to the licensing of the Guga Hunt.

In the letter the Comhairle thanked Nature Scot for their professional handling of the Guga Hunt licensing process, in challenging circumstances.

The letter states: “Comhairle nan Eilean Siar welcomes Nature Scot’s approach to make licensing decisions based on the most recent scientific evidence. The steps taken in 2025, with consideration for gannet numbers, ensured the hunt remained a sustainable and humane practice that produces food while protecting the gannet population of Sula Sgeir.

"While tradition is important it is also important that the Guga Hunt complies with regulation. We thank the Men of Ness for their cooperation on this matter.

“Comhairle nan Eilean Siar supports the continued licensing of the Guga Hunt. The Guga Hunt is a sustainable and regulated practice that is important to the heritage of Ness and the wider Western Isles. Alongside crofting and fishing the Guga Hunt is a traditional practice that provides low food mile produce for local consumption.”

Comhairle nan Eilean Siar’s letter is cosigned by Paul Steele, Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Kenny Macleod, Convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, Duncan Macinnes, Depute Leader of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar and Martin Joyce, Chief Executive of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.