New fisheries commissioner
THE Scottish fishing industry has called on the new European fisheries commissioner Karmenu Vella to be more inclusive than his Greek predecessor Maria Damanaki.
The Maltese politician was named the new commissioner for the environment, maritime affairs and fisheries in Jean-Claude Junker’s commission, confirmed by the European Parliament on Wednesday.
Chief executive of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, Bertie Armstrong, said the 64-year old politician needed to listen to industry concerns over key issues such as the forthcoming discards ban.
“The over-arching criticism of the outgoing fisheries commissioner, Maria Damanaki, was that she imposed policy without due consideration of the negative impact on our coastal fishing communities.
It is essential, therefore, the Mr Vella adopts a totally different much more inclusive approach that listens to our concerns so that policy can be shaped that ensures a viable future for Scottish fishing,” Armstrong said.
Vella takes up his post as fisheries commissioner on 1 November.
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