MSPs in Brussels to speak up for isles
THE SCOTTISH government needs to be more “constructive and imaginative” in implementing the electronic sheep identification scheme, EID, according to Shetland MSP Tavish Scott.
This is the advice, he said, he had received from the European Commission this morning.
Scott, together with Orkney MSP Liam McArthur, are in Brussels today (Monday) to lobby officials and politicians on a number of vital issues to the northern isles, such as fishing, agriculture and transport services.
Tweeting from the Belgian capital, Scott said: “Helpful advice on EID for Shetland from EC – need Edinburgh to be constructive and imaginative. Now CFP and mackerel.”
Speaking on Sunday before heading for the Continent, he said: “Sheep EID doesn’t work in Shetland and never can.
“We need to mark animals as they leave Shetland for markets in the south. We also must maintain the high health status Shetland agriculture has by checking all sheep and cattle when they arrive in Lerwick.
“I want the European Commission to accept the nature of agriculture in Shetland and help us retain the health advantages we have without the need for EID within the islands which doesn’t work and is completely unnecessary.
“I also want to press the case for a fairer penalty regime on the land that crofters and farmers use.
“The Scottish Government is hammering individuals with huge penalties. They blame Europe so I want to hear from Europe who is to blame. It is time this unfair and quite disproportionate penalty regime changed.”
Mr McArthur added: “Decisions taken in Brussels have a direct effect on those living and working the islands. This is particularly true in relation to farming and fishing, both of which are facing significant change and uncertainty at the moment.”
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