Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead today welcomed the decision to adopt the European Union’s Shark Action Plan.
Speaking from the Fisheries Council in Luxembourg today, where he signalled Scotland’s support for tougher restrictions, Mr Lochhead said:
“I welcome and support the decision to prioritise this Shark Action Plan which is a well-balanced approach.
“Our scientists tell us that some shark populations are critically endangered, and we need to respond to that advice.
“In Scotland we are working closely with the industry and NGOs to ensure that sharks are given adequate protection and that our waters remain healthy and our fish stocks sustainable.
“We are one of Europe’s most important fishing nations and we have a huge interest in maintaining the sustainability of our seas, their stocks and the wider marine ecosystem.”
The Shark Trust director of conservation, Ali Hood said:
“A coherent approach to shark conservation and management is long overdue and the Community Plan of Action for Sharks represents a framework for positive action. What we urgently need now is demonstrations of commitment by Member States to deliver on the promises of the Council Conclusions. ”
The EU’s Shark Action Plan was released on February 6 this year. The plan is a framework document that sets out a range of potential measures (both mandatory and voluntary) to be implemented at Member State, European Community level and within Regional Management Organisations. A number of the measures will be introduced through new legislative proposals or by amending existing legislation.
The Shark Trust is the UK registered charity which works to advance the worldwide conservation of sharks, skates and rays through science, education, influence and action.
