Fishing communities across Scotland have joined forces to challenge the proposed ban on commercial activities in areas of coastal waters.
Seven organisations including trade body Salmon Scotland are petitioning the Scottish government to drop its plans for highly protected marine areas (HPMAs) which the ‘Seafood Coalition’ argues are based on scant evidence.
The proposals, put forward by the SNP and Green Party, would see at least 10% of Scotland’s seas become HPMAs by 2026, restricting activities such as fishing and aquaculture.
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, said: “There is scant scientific justification for the proposed HPMAs, and an outright ban on responsible sea activities is not the solution.
“These proposals present a significant threat to our rural way of life, and opposition is growing both inside and outside of Holyrood.
“That’s why we have joined forces with other seafood organisations to launch this petition, urging ministers to adopt an evidence-based approach that protects both the environment and the livelihoods of hardworking Scots.”
The petition asks for a review of the results from the current marine protected areas that already cover 37% of Scottish waters. It also suggests learning from the pilot programmes of HPMAs in other UK waters.
Scottish salmon farms directly employ 2,500 people and support more than 3,600 suppliers, with a further 10,000 jobs in every constituency dependent on farm-raised salmon. The sector adds £760 million each year to the country’s economy, and Scottish salmon is the UK’s biggest food export.
The Seafood Coalition comprises Salmon Scotland, the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, Seafood Scotland, Scottish Association of Fish Producers’ Organisations, Community Fisheries Inshore Alliance and Scottish Seafood Association.
