LAUSR

Abstract A 56-statement Q Methodology constructed a hierarchy of values from the views of eighty-six high-level, well-informed stakeholders on the subject of salmon aquaculture development in Ireland. These values, sorted by z-scores, provided a direct comparison on the strength of stakeholder priorities associated with salmon aquaculture, other maritime economic sectors, and the ecosystem goods and services they rely upon. By clustering issues within eight interrelated social-ecological systems themes and performing Principal Components Factor Analysis, five factor groups were identified. High-priority consensus views were identified from factor group Q sorts. Stakeholders broadly agree that maintaining healthy and productive maritime habitats is a priority for all related sectors, that the sector would benefit from an independent regulatory body, and that a policy movement away from single-sector and toward multi-sector approaches is needed to alleviate conflict in the shared maritime space. Ireland produced approximately 16,300 t of farmed salmon in 2016, one percent of the global share of production, and have are aiming to surpass 22,000 t per annum by 2023. This study shows that Q Methodology has the capacity to quantify hierarchies of values within communities and highlight areas of stakeholder consensus at a policy-relevant level. In doing so, Q Methodology allows policy-makers, managers, and stakeholder leaders to better define priorities, recommend broadly supported policies, and resolve conflict.