Regional Task Forces will tackle weak stock assessments : ICES and the RACs are planning to establish regional task forces to tackle the problem of weak stock assessments impaired by deficiencies in the data used to estimate abundance and advise on management measures. The regional task forces will also provide a platform for increased cooperation and dialogue. Fisheries managers from the member states will be invited to participate to strengthen the initiative.

Seafood Shetland in partnership with the Scottish Shellfish Marketing Group (SSMG) has entered its mussel fishery for MSC Assessment.

The Scottish fishermen’s Federation has welcomed the decision by international scientists and regional fisheries groups to work more closely together so as to tackle the problem of weak fish stock assessments caused by inadequate data.