Fishing leaders respond to EU exit

SCOTLAND’s two largest fishing associations have urged the governments in Edinburgh and London to work with them to secure better fishing opportunities.

The UK has voted in favour of leaving the EU in Thursday’s historic referendum.

Leave won the ballot by 51.9 to 48.1 per cent, although Scotland voted strongly in favour of remaining in the EU with 62 per cent. In Shetland 56.5 per cent of voters opted for staying in the EU.

In a joint statement issued shortly after the official result was announced on Friday morning, the leaders of the Scottish White Fish Producers’ Association and Shetland Fishermen’s Association acknowledged that most of their members had wanted out of the EU.

But they emphasised that the UK’s exit would not bring long-term benefits unless there was close collaboration with Holyrood and Westminster on a new UK and Scottish fisheries policy.

SWFPA chief executive Mike Park said: “European Union fisheries policy is flawed – that is why so many fishermen voted to leave.

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“But we need to recognise that there are significant dangers to the industry if the UK and Scottish governments do not react to the very clear message by focusing on a new approach that recognises fishermen themselves and their communities as the key stakeholders.

“Members of the SWFPA insist that we stay on course with regard to sustainable harvesting and sensible fishing, and they are equally insistent that unworkable laws be changed.”

SFA executive officer Simon Collins added: “We will be looking to work together with politicians and civil servants in Edinburgh and London to focus on helping the industry secure improved fishing opportunities and a set of practical, sensible rules that everyone can adhere to while preserving livelihoods and fish stocks.”

More reactions to Thursday’s EU vote to follow.