Waiting On a Decision
12 Jun 2026
by Netty Sopata
As NatureScot considers whether or not to grant a licence for this year's guga hunt, representations against and in favour of the annual harvest are being submitted.
In this week's Fios we have collated opinions on the guga hunt from a Fios Editorial to Murdo's Smuaintean à Sgiogarstaidh, statements of support from our elected representatives – Torcuil Crichton (MP) and Donald MacKinnon (MSP), Urras Oighreachd Ghabhsainn's letter to NatureScot and an article from Robbie Marsland.
It is not often that we feel the need to publish an editorial. The content for Fios – collated, edited and published every two weeks – covers the opinions of local columnists, councillors and churches. We have a policy of reporting objectively on news items that may be divisive within the community and in doing so, rarely commit the publication to a fixed point of view.
Over the past eight months we have been reporting regularly on the petition to ban the guga hunt. Our columnists have expressed their opinions, and we have detailed the development of the situation. One of the main reasons why Fios has not, until now, come out in support of the guga hunt is because we have not felt the need to – sometimes staying quiet is the best strategy – the facts can speak for themselves.
But when those facts are so outrageously misrepresented across social media and at times in the mainstream press, being quiet is not an option. Especially when those facts are twisted and weaponised against the integrity of this community and the people within it.
We have every respect for different, thoughtfully considered opinions – as demonstrated in Robbie Marsland’s article and undoubtedly held by some members of this community. Everyone is entitled to an opinion and although many readers will not agree with his perspective, being able to express an opinion is a fundamental right in a democracy – as is the right to disagree and defend a tradition.
The guga hunt is a legal activity that has adapted over the decades in consideration of scientific data whilst also accommodating the pressures of modern-day lifestyles. In doing so, it is a tradition that maintains the sustainable development of the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of this community, alongside a highly- valued and humanely-killed source of food.
The language, the stories, the physical skills and pride continue to exist and evolve through use. Stop using them and they become part of history. In the words of a local fifteen-year-old:
“The cultural significance of the guga hunt lies at the heart of the local community’s identity. The hunt connects the present generation with their ancestors, with the skills and respect required to hunt guga being handed down over time. It is more than just a means of obtaining food; it is a revered tradition that embodies the harmony between humans and nature. The careful preparation of the hunted guga form integral aspects of the local culture. The guga hunt should be allowed to continue so cultural practices and harmonious coexistence with nature can be maintained.”