SFPO welcomes Scottish government support for Industry
The Shetland PO has welcomed the support announced today (Thursday 25th July) by Scottish fisheries secretary Richard Lochhead.
Shetland Fish Producers’ Organisation chief executive Brian Isbister, Chairman Victor Laurenson together with SFA Executive Officer Simon Collins met Mr Lochhead at Scalloway harbour for brief talks during his visit to Shetland.
Although noting that significant components of the measures presented were designed to alleviate the serious issues affecting the Scottish prawn fleets, based outwith Shetland, Mr Isbister said afterwards: "We were nevertheless pleased to hear the minister’s words of support for the fishing industry and fishing communities such as ours."
"We now look forward to seeing more of the detail of the funding package, particularly as it will relate to work we are undertaking in preparation for the forthcoming discard ban. Of interest too is the promise of support for promoting the seafood sector and the marketing of our products."
"Fishermen are facing up to a number of serious challenges in the years to come and it is of course hugely important that the government recognises the value of fisheries to these islands and the country as a whole."