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Fishing expo highlights challenges facing Scottish industry
May 21, 2010 4:07 PM
Liberal Democrat MEP George Lyon and Fisheries Spokesman Liam McArthur attended the Fishing 2010 exhibition in Glasgow today. During the visit they met industry representatives and exhibitors to discuss a range of issues facing Scotland's fishing sector.
With reform of the Common Fisheries Policy high on the agenda in the European Parliament at present, George Lyon was keen to hear the industry's views on what they hope will emerge from these negotiations.
Commenting, Mr Lyon said:
"As it stands the Common Fisheries Policy is not fit for purpose.
"The European Parliament's focus must be on reforming the Common Fisheries Policy so it balances the needs of fishing fleets with maintaining sustainable fishing grounds. At present it does neither particularly well.
"My focus will be on returning management of our fisheries to Scottish shores and ensuring that the CFP rewards fishermen for their efforts."
Commenting on the Fisheries' Secretary's announcement of a Fisheries Action Plan Liberal Democrat fisheries spokesperson Liam McArthur MSP added:
"Speaking to fishing industry representatives in Glasgow it is quite clear that the reduction in effort and a lack of quota present huge challenges. Many say it is only a question of which threat will kill them off first.
"Despite that, the Fisheries Secretary has spent the last few months telling everyone about how difficult his job is, rather than taking action to address the problems Scottish fishermen face.
"Today's announcement of funding for the industry is a welcome, if belated response from Mr Lochhead and it is to be hoped the exemption for some boats from the days at sea restrictions can be achieved. It is just a shame that so much time is spent on false promises and tired excuses before Ministers accept the need to act."
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