A landmark scheme that rewards fishermen who help conserve cod stocks with extra days at sea started last Monday.
The ground-breaking initiative has been made possible thanks to an
historic agreement with the European Union, reports the Scottish Government.
It introduces strict conservation measures such as the voluntary closure
of areas when juvenile or spawning cod are encountered by boats and
controls on net sizes.
In return for complying with these measures, fishermen will this year be
able to have the same number of days at sea in 2008 as they had in 2007.
Announcing the start of the scheme, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead said:
"This scheme represents a new and sustainable approach to fishing in
Scotland. Europe's go-ahead for this scheme recognises and rewards the
responsible leadership our industry has shown towards conservation.
"For the first time the Scottish Government, working with the industry and
conservationists, has been trusted to decide on the allocation of days at
sea for its own fleet. Previously this was handled by Europe.
"We now need to show that trust is well-placed. It is time for Scotland to
deliver and show the way forward. The eyes of Europe will be on us.
There is a lot of hard work ahead but I believe together we can do it.
"The Conservation Credits Scheme helps us strike the balance between
sustainable fishing and a thriving fishing industry. It is the perfect way
to mark Environment Week.
"This Government promised a fresh start for Scotland's fishing industry
and the communities it supports. We are now delivering on that promise."
Helen McLachlan, Senior Marine Policy Officer, WWF Scotland, said:
"This is a welcome step in the right direction. The Scottish fleet is
leading the way with this initiative and we hope that this will form part
of a wider package to help the rebuilding of North Sea cod stocks. Young
cod need to stay in the water to spawn and we must find the most effective
ways of achieving this. We look forward to monitoring progress throughout
the year."
Bertie Armstrong, Chief Executive of the Scottish Fishermen's Federation
said:
"The Scottish industry has played a full part with Scottish scientists and
the Government in getting us to this point. We are happy that we now have
a chance to show that we can rise to the challenges which this scheme will
bring."
