Scotland’s new fisheries research vessel – FRV Alba Na Mara – was officially named by the First Minister and Mrs Salmond at a ceremony at Fraserburgh Harbour today.
Alba Na Mara, meaning the Scottish Seas, will protect the fish stock in Scottish waters and undertake research of the marine environment to support the sustainable management of Scotlands fisheries.
Mr Salmond said:
This is a magnificent vessel, the biggest and most sophisticated ship to be built by MacDuff shipyards, and a significant addition to the Fisheries Research Services fleet.
A striking example of Scotlands industry and innovation, it was designed in Scotland and built in Scotland with the main purpose of researching and protecting Scotlands seas.
Our fishing and fish farming industries are pivotal to the Scottish Government’s overarching goal – increasing sustainable economic growth. It supports thousands of jobs across the country while the total value of landings made by Scottish vessels in 2006 amounted to 368.5 million pounds.
We must do all we can to safeguard these industries and ensure science plays its central role in monitoring, researching and advising to build a more sustainable, profitable sector.
Already tasked with 270 days at sea, the Alba na Mara will help us do both. It will monitor our fish and shellfish stock while researching our marine ecology to help sustainable management of our fisheries.
I congratulate all involved in the creation of this vessel and whish them the very best success for their days at sea.
Robin Cook, Chief Executive of FRS, said:
One of the most important functions of FRS is to provide the Scottish Government with expert advice to support the marine and fisheries policy, which can only be achieved through the provision of high quality scientific work conducted at sea.
Alba na Mara will play a pivotal role in ensuring that marine research carried out by FRS remains of the highest calibre.
Alba na Mara is a replacement for FRV Clupea – a research vessel that has been in operation with FRS for 40 years.
Fisheries Research Services (FRS) provides expert scientific and technical advice on marine and freshwater fisheries, aquaculture and the protection of the aquatic environment.
An agency of the Scottish Government, FRS incorporates the FRS Marine Laboratory in Aberdeen, the FRS Freshwater Laboratory near Pitlochry and outstations throughout Scotland.
