Constructive talks were held today in Edinburgh between Scottish Fisheries Minister Richard Lochhead and a delegation from the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, representing fisheries from all round Scotland.
Among topics on the agenda was an update on yesterday’s meeting between Mr Lochhead and UK Fisheries Minister Ben Bradshaw in London, and a discussion of the main issues on the table at next week’s EC Fish Council in Luxembourg (11 June).
SFF chief executive, Bertie Armstrong, said: “Regarding the talks in Whitehall yesterday, the real issue for us is to see evidence that the needs and aspirations of the Scottish fishing industry are taken into proper, realistic account in decision-making and policy formation. Time will tell. Meanwhile, we are encouraged by the Minister’s determination to have a stronger voice for Scotland and for industry to have a bigger say.
“We made a start also on exploring the immediate issues which will affect the industry – like prospects for next year’s catching opportunity in key Scottish fisheries – and on what practical form the closer productive engagement of the industry in the fisheries management process will take.
“Following today’s talks, we are confident that the first steps in the right direction are being taken.”
