Ian Gatt has taken over the role of Vice-President of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation – the trade association that leads the catching sector of Scotland’s fishing industry.
He takes over from Mike Park, who steps down as Vice-President to give his full attention to his role of Executive Chairman of Scottish Whitefish Producers’ Association Ltd.
A meeting of the Federation executive committee also agreed to appoint Mr Gatt as President designate of the SFF. He will take over from Alex West when he retires from the role in June after three years at the helm.
With 30 years experience in the industry, 23 of which have been as a skipper and owner, Mr Gatt brings a wealth of experience from across the spectrum of commercial fishing from prawns to deep water species.
He said: “I look forward to meeting the challenges of my new role, giving support to the industry which has given me my livelihood. It is well worth our best efforts - Scotland’s fleet is a front-runner in Europe – whatever way it’s measured, producing a hallmark range of products and with roots in every corner of our land. My experience gives me a clear picture of most of the problems and I will seek to strengthen communications with all our constituent Associations, to hear and promote their perspective on the issues.”
Bertie Armstrong, SFF Chief Executive said: “We welcome Ian to his new role and his experience will prove invaluable to us. I would also like to thank Mike Park for the superb contribution he made to the Federation in his role as Vice-President.”
