The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation will tomorrow officially welcome Richard Lochhead as he makes his first public engagement as Fisheries Minister.

Mr Lochhead, who was appointed Fisheries Minister last week, will be welcomed by SFF Chief Executive Bertie Armstrong during a visit to the Fishing 2007 Exhibition in Glasgow.

Mr Armstrong said: “We have a new man at the helm and this presents the opportunity for a fresh start. The 15 point action plan for Scottish fishing, published during the election, contains a great deal of what we have been campaigning for. There will be much to discuss and refine, but we at the sharp end of the industry look forward to addressing this with the Cabinet Secretary.

“Top of the agenda is the proper representation of Scottish Fishing as the predominant part of UK commercial fishing, both on the international stage and in domestic decision-making.

“An early start for the action plan is the immediate formation of an Industry/Science partnership, recognising the world class quality of Scotland’s fishery science and the crucial importance it has the basis of every decision on sustainable fishing.

“There are some formidable challenges to be met in the short and longer term. Catching opportunity for 2008, to be decided over the rest of this year, is the first immediate priority. In parallel, slightly longer-term decisions on a revised Cod Recovery plan will have far-reaching effects on the Scottish Industry, as will the consideration of what can be done to minimise unwanted by-catches.

“Already running in the background is a comprehensive programme of cooperation and discussion with the administration on taking forward a sustainable, profitable, well-managed Scottish Fishing industry. We will enthusiastically continue this work with the new team at the top.”