Seafish issues west of Scotland nephrops fishery key features

Seafish conducted a survey of nephrops fishermen and processors in the west coast of Scotland last year, regarding key issues facing the industry. The report was published in November and the key features of the study are now available.

The report describes the causes and implications of an agreed list of issues facing the nephrops sector on the west coast of Scotland.

The information and analyses in the report are intended to help identify effective solutions to the issues. The report contains fishermen's views on some possible solutions, but was not intended to provide considered proposals for solutions to the issues.

The issues examined in this report are:

* The fisheries management objectives for the nephrops fishery

* Appropriateness and effectiveness of management measures

* Maximising catch value

* Gear choice: single-rig or twin-rig

* Gear conflict

* Accuracy and quality of scientific advice

* Crew issues

Hazel Curtis, Chief Economist, Seafish, said: "The information in this report is intended to inform fishermen about the causes and implications of the issues facing them so that fishermen can work together to identify practical solutions. It also contains fishermen's views on possible solutions."

The full West of Scotland Nephrops report is on the Seafish website at www.seafish.org/resources/publications.asp and the key features document is available from the Seafish economics team on +44 (0)131 524 8659 or email s_anton@seafish.co.uk.