News / Call for regional control over fish stocks
SHETLAND MSP Tavish Scott has called for control over fisheries management to be removed from Brussels.
The Scottish LibDems fisheries spokesman said the SNP government in Edinburgh should “move heaven and earth” to give countries bordering the North Sea control over fish stocks in the region.
Scott’s intervention follows a visit by him and his Orkney party colleague Liam McArthur to the European Commission last week, during which they lobbied the fisheries commissioner.
Also last week, a group of Scottish skippers travelled to Edinburgh for discussions with fisheries minister Richard Lochhead.
A key theme to emerge was that fishermen needed more flexibility to change fishing practices and minimise costs.
The LibDem MSP said the system needed radical change: “Scottish fishermen need an active government focused on their interests.
“Decisions over fish stocks should be taken by the countries that border the North Sea.
“That approach would halt the botched command and control Brussels management that the industry has suffered from over decades where landlocked countries with no interest in North Sea fish stocks decide our fish quotas.
“The European Commission wants that change. So do fishermen. The Scottish and UK Governments should now move heaven and earth to make regional fisheries management of the North Sea happen.
“That would be positive for fishermen, fish stocks and the local coastal and island communities that depend on a successful and financially sustainable industry.”
Mr Lochhead issued a statement last week saying: “I am in full agreement that the present system needs to change, which is why I’m pressing for radical changes to the Common Fisheries Policy.
“Regionalisation would mean decisions that affect our fishermen – such as these skippers – can be taken closer to home, tailored to their needs while better protecting the stocks.
“I was heartened to hear that the skippers felt we must do more to promote Scottish sea fisheries as an outstanding seafood product. I’m committed to working closer with the industry to get that message across – in the same way that Scotch beef and Scotch whisky are perceived around the world.
“What was also made clear is that the Scottish Government can do more to communicate directly with the grassroots of the industry and ensure our messaging is clear and consistent. I’ve asked my officials to take this feedback on board.”
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