Scottish fishing leaders say EU proposals come as an industry bombshell as the measure, set to be introduced next year from west of Shetland, would hit important species such as cod, haddock and whiting. But the European Commission describe the proposals a necessary move to protect the stocks of fish species in that area.
Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead informed that the worst of the measures could be seen off in negotiations. He added that the measures affect waters at depths less than 200 metres and will also affect prawn fisherman who also catch white fish. Kenneth Patterson, from the European Commission, explained that the present situation is serious enough that the scientific committees concerned have advised a closure or reduction to the lowest possible level for cod, haddock and whiting.
Patterson told that the intentions would be to let the largest part of fishing activity, that doesn’t catch cod, haddock and whiting, continue with as little impact as possible. Fishing boat skipper James Reid, from Fraserburgh, opined that there are a lot of little islands and this fish is their only source of income so to close that is a disaster. George MacRae, from the Scottish White Fish Producers’ Association, called the proposal as a bombshell in which the communities will have to struggle.
