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Original article: Aysén: Consejero regional llamó a revisar el modelo de subcontratación en industria salmonera tras continuas muertes

“We Cannot Get Used to This”: Councilor Infante Demands Review of Labor Conditions in Salmon Industry Following Another Fatal Tragedy

Regional councilor for Coyhaique, Benjamín Infante, expressed his condolences following the recent death of a 27-year-old diver on July 2 at a fish farming site near Puerto Aguirre. This incident has prompted him to advocate for a discussion regarding labor conditions in the aquaculture industry. This tragedy comes just weeks after another worker in the sector lost their life, amidst a series of workplace accidents reported this year within Chile’s salmon farming operations.

See also / Continues World Record of Worker Deaths in the Salmon Industry in Chile: New Tragedy Mourning Aysén Patagonia

“I want to extend my condolences to the family, to their coworkers, and to the entire community of Puerto Aguirre. The death of such a young worker profoundly affects us and compels us to ask what is happening in this industry,” stated the councilor. Infante emphasized that authorities need to investigate the causes, but pointed out that “when these incidents keep occurring, it is no longer sufficient to evaluate each case individually. We must also review the working conditions of thousands of individuals employed in aquaculture,” as reported by Tehuelche Noticias.

According to the Aysenian outlet, the councilor noted that various reports published this year have highlighted the high number of fatal accidents in the salmon industry, indicating that many of the most hazardous tasks are carried out by contracting and subcontracting companies. “A large portion of the most dangerous work is outsourced. This often dilutes the responsibilities of the main companies and leaves workers in a precarious situation. This model warrants a serious review,” said Infante.

Infante added that this scenario illustrates a contradiction that Aysén has faced for years: “Aquaculture generates tremendous wealth for Chile, and a significant part of that wealth originates from our region. Yet, many of the communities wherein this industry operates still encounter significant social gaps. Economic growth alone does not ensure development,” emphasized Tehuelche Noticias.

The councilor proposed that the Regional Government establish locations for the National Institute for Sustainable Development of Small Scale Fishing and Aquaculture (INDESPA) in the productive island hotspots of the region.

Finally, according to Tehuelche Noticias, he called for enhanced monitoring of high-risk operations and for progress toward a model where economic growth is paired with greater protections for workers. “We cannot get used to hearing these news stories repeatedly. Development must also mean that individuals can return home safe and sound after their workday. This should be a priority for the entire industry and the government,” he concluded. Puerto Aguirre, located in the Aysén region, is a community of approximately 540 residents whose main economic activities are fishing and aquaculture.

La entrada Aysén Regional Councilor Calls for Review of Salmon Farming Subcontracting Model After Ongoing Tragedies se publicó primero en El Ciudadano.