Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead giving evidence to the Rural Affairs and Environment Committee acknowledged the talks would be tough, but that he would do everything in his power to secure a positive outcome. Lochhead said that there is no question that we face some difficult negotiations and decisions in the weeks ahead.
He added that the government is determined to fight for the best possible outcome for the Scottish sector again this year. He informed that the priorities of the government include resisting the Commission’s unacceptable ideas for the West coast and ensuring our fishermen no longer need to throw thousands of tonnes of north sea cod overboard.
Lochhead opined that through innovative Conservation Credits Scheme the Scottish government can introduce measures which make a real difference for sustainability. He also told that Team Scotland’s vital expertise can help ensure to build on the approach that brought such important gains last year in order to find the right solutions to these challenges.
Lochhead also welcomed a new report which suggests the landmark Conservation Credits scheme – that rewards fishermen who help conserve cod stocks with extra days at sea – has made an early impact. He said that the new and sustainable approach to fishing in Scotland is starting to pay dividends. Besides, Scottish scientists, the Scottish industry has played a major role in rising to the challenges posed by the scheme, opined Lochhead.
