Reacting to the EU’s draft guidelines for trade talks, Scottish Fishermen’s Federation chief executive Bertie Armstrong stated that there cannot be ‘fairer shares’ for fishing communities if existing reciprocal access is maintained.
‘This latest gambit must be rejected. When we leave the EU we leave the Common Fisheries Policy and assume our rightful place at the table as a Coastal State,’ he said.
‘Each year we will then decide who catches what, where and when. The days of the EU taking 60% of our fish are coming to an end. The Sea of opportunity is within reach.
SFF had already responded to a government document setting out the UK’s legal position on the transition or implementation period with the statement that ‘“It is very encouraging that the UK government has rejected the EU’s proposals and intends that we become a fully functioning Coastal State from 29th March 2019.’
‘With that should come control over 100% of our stocks and access to our waters, the starting point for the UK to begin restoring its proud status as an independent fishing nation like Norway instead of being compelled to give away 60% of our fish,’ Bertie Armstrong said.
‘However, there is clearly a long way to go, and real political backbone will be required in the negotiations with Brussels to ensure that the only palatable outcome for the fishing industry and our coastal communities is achieved.’
