This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Shetland Vital To Rural Scotland - Finnie
30/08/2000
Shetland will play a full part in a radical new agenda to deliver real change across all parts of rural Scotland, Ross Finnie said today.
Speaking during a two-day visit to Shetland, the Minister for Rural Affairs said:
"Rural interests are at the heart of the Scottish Executive's policies and my visit will confirm what is required in Shetland to fashion an agenda, which will turn the vision set out in our document, 'Rural Scotland: A New Approach, into reality.
"I will be assessing the many and varied challenges faced by Shetland as part of my wide range of agricultural, fisheries and rural development visits.
"I will attend a discussion group to take forward the development of a new strategy for Scottish agriculture. I look forward to, what will, I am sure be a healthy debate on the best direction for farming in Shetland and in Scotland.
"I will also be meeting key fisheries interests - a vital part of Shetland's economy. The fishing industry faces many challenges, not least here in Shetland, but I have been heartened by the progressive thinking that is evident amongst Shetland's fishing community."
News Release: SE2335/2000
30 Aug 2000