EU funding boost for fishing
FISHING and aquaculture projects in Shetland have benefited from new European funding to the tune of over £1.5 million.
A total of eight isles projects have received money from the first round of payouts from the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund.
Shetland Mussels got the biggest grant in Shetland, with the company given £592,000 for farm optimisation.
University of Highlands and Islands was granted £472,000 to go towards phase two of its shellfish hatchery stepping stone project.
Nearly £300,000 was given to A & C Tait to buy a mussel farm and seed handling vessel and equipment.
Other businesses to benefit in Sheltand were Venture Fishing Co Ltd, 60 North Fishing Limited and Oceanway Fishing Company Ltd.
Money was also granted to the Concord and Alison Kay vessels.
A total of £11.4 million was given out in Scotland through the fund, with a total of 65 projects benefiting.
Rural economy secretary Fergus Ewing said the funding will be vital for many projects across Scotland.
“EU funding is a lifeline to many of our fragile coastal communities and helps to create and sustain jobs in the fishing sector,” he said.
“This funding package will provide crucial support for fishermen, sustainable aquaculture, the processing sector and the communities and jobs which depend on them.
“It will also benefit our renowned seafood by helping to promote Scottish produce on the world stage to premium markets.”
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