This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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EU Fisheries Commissioner in Scotland
29/01/2005
Fisheries Minister Ross Finnie today welcomed Europe's new Fisheries Commissioner to Scotland.
Mr Finnie hosted the visit by Dr Joe Borg to Peterhead and Fraserburgh, Scotland's main white fish ports, and to a boat yard at Macduff where they saw a new vessel under construction.
Tours of the two harbours included meetings with fisheries representatives, a tour of the Fisheries Protection Vessel Norna and a visit to a pelagic processing plant in Fraserburgh.
Mr Finnie said:
"I am delighted that the Commissioner has been able to take up our invitation so promptly.
"The Scottish Executive works closely with our fishing industry and fisheries interests. Only through such close co-operation can we secure a sustainable and prosperous future for the industry and the communities it supports.
"Scotland's fishing industry is also at the forefront of European efforts to conserve threatened stocks. It is vital that we work with European partners to protect our valuable marine resources.
"Stronger links between the Commission and the people who make their living from the seas will enhance the credibility of our European institutions and improve the management of our fisheries.
"This is an important visit and it builds on our work, through the Regional Advisory Councils, to give fisheries interests a greater voice in the key decisions that are made within the EU."