Letters / Winnie would have signed pledge before the paper hit the desk
The refusal by the SNP general election candidate to support local fishermen by signing the Scottish Fishermen’s federation pledge tells us a little about her views on fishing and quite a lot about what sort of MP she would be if she were to be elected (‘Brett won’t sign Brexit fishing pledge’, SN 19/5/17).
Representing a fishing community is never easy. There are few politicians or civil servants who really understand the industry. That is how it was possible for Conservative minsters in the 1970s to describe the industry as “expendable”. It is also why the interests of the industry have been traded off against other sectors of our economy in negotiations over the years. So the fishing case must be made time and time again.
That is why it is so crucial that anyone representing these islands listens to and to works with the fishing industry and its representatives. Alistair Carmichael has worked closely with the Shetland Fishermen’s Association and others to put the case for local fishermen as our local MP.
The SNP candidate could do worse than seek the advice of Winnie Ewing. I may have had my differences with Winnie over the years but I never once doubted her commitment to the fishing industry. I have no doubt that if Winnie had been asked to sign that pledge it would have been signed before the paper hit the desk.
Tavish Scott (Shetland MSP)
Gardie, Bressay
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.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
