According to Richard Lochhead a threat to waters west of Shetland ahead of annual talks as “draconian” and “devastating”. Scottish Fishermen’s Federation chief executive Bertie Armstrong acknowledged a problem with some fish stocks. It is said that a total shutdown of west coast could displace fishing effort into the North Sea. Lochhead was speaking after giving evidence to the rural affairs and environment committee. He told that there is no question that we face some difficult negotiations and decisions in the weeks ahead.
He also said that he is determined to fight for the best possible outcome for the Scottish sector again this year. In the current economic climate these talks are more important than ever. He opined that the top priorities 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.
However, Armstrong has called for policies which would lead to a reduction in the amount of fish discarded which would allow skippers to catch less, but land more. He pointed out that the Scottish fishing industry will be pressing for a more intelligent approach to stock conservation that will provide real solutions.
