News / Fishing industry buoyant
THE TURNOVER of the local fishing fleet increased by 40 per cent last year, according to new figures complied by Dr Ian Napier of the NAFC Marine Centre.
Shetland boats landed more than 134,000 tonnes of fish worth £112 million in 2014.
That was up on the 2013 figures of 82,000 tonnes worth £79 million – a 64 per cent rise in volume and a 42 per cent rise economically.
More fish and shellfish was landed in Shetland in 2014 than any other port in the UK, apart from Peterhead.
Most of the increase can be attributed to a rise in mackerel landings following quota increases introduced in a bid to end a long-running dispute between the EU and Norway on one hand and Faroe and Iceland on the other.
However, whitefish and shellfish landings by Shetland boats also increased in weight and value.
Shetland Fish Producers’ Organisation (SFPO) chief executive Brian Isbister said: “We’ve seen a steady improvement in most of the key stocks of fish over the past few years.
“Meanwhile, the constituent parts of the industry in Shetland have been working together to ensure we have modern, fit-for-purpose shore-side facilities and quality control systems in place, as well as a good evidence base about stocks from local scientists.
“These factors help to explain why we are seeing such positive landing figures. There is a confidence back in the industry. You can also see that in the investment that is taking place in modernising the fleet.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.