Commenting on the Scottish Government announcement (embargoed until 00.01 August 20) of two new marine Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) on the north-west Rockall Bank and the Wyville Thomson Ridge, Bertie Armstrong, chief executive of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, said:
“The protection of the marine environment lies close to the hearts of Scottish fishermen because a healthy ecosystem leads to productive seas.
“It is vital that a sensible balance is achieved between marine protection and ensuring that fishermen can continue to sustainably harvest a wonderful and renewable food resource.
“The Scottish fishing industry was involved in the consultation process for these two new SACs and it is essential that such co-operation and consultation continues into the future so as to minimise any impact on the traditional and sustainable activities of the fishing industry, whilst at the same time ensuring the protection of our valuable marine environment.”
