Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead has commented on provisional sea fisheries statistics for 2010, published recently.
He said: "Overall values for the various fish species have held or improved with the exception of mackerel which has dropped from an exceptionally high point in 2009."
"Whitefish landings increased two per cent in value to £152 million and shellfish increased in value by six per cent to also bring in £152 million."
"The overall total of £428 million is a significant figure for the sector and underlines the industry's vital role in Scotland."
"These figures show an industry producing high yields in difficult times, but we must also remember that profitability remains fragile due to fuel prices and other running costs.
"Scotland's mixed fishery and its valuable shellfish sector, sustains an industry that contributes not just economically to Scotland's prosperity but also sustains the social environment of our vital coastal communities, and must be supported."
"The statistics do reflect the fluctuations of the fishing industry however, with the price of mackerel dropping from its 2009 high of £151 million to £124 million in 2010 although high prices appear to be returning in 2011."
"What these provisional statistics highlight is that ensuring that mackerel is sustainably managed is essential not only for the stock, but also for the long-term viability of the industry."
"That's why irresponsible unilateral setting of quotas by other nations undermines the current healthy state of the stock and reduces opportunities for Scottish fishermen."
