This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Public inquiry on inshore fisheries proposals
14/11/2005
An independent inquiry to examine proposals for the management of shellfish fisheries in the Highlands was announced today.
The inquiry will consider objections to the proposed Highland Regulating Order.
Fisheries Minister Ross Finnie said:
"I know that plans for a Highland Regulating Order have prompted considerable debate, both in the Highlands and beyond.
"I am keen to resolve the question of whether the proposals are the best way to manage and develop this vital element of the Highlands' environment and economy.
"A number of relevant objections to the scheme have been received and, as required by the Sea Fisheries (Shellfish) Act 1967, I will be appointing an inspector to make an inquiry into the subject matter of the proposed Order".
Regulating Orders are made by Scottish Ministers under the Sea Fisheries (Shellfish) Act 1967 and permit a grantee to maintain and regulate a fishery in the designated area. The applicant follows a statutory process, which includes a period for objections to be raised. Should objections be received that are "neither frivolous nor irrelevant", Ministers are required under Schedule 1 of the Act "to appoint some fit person to act as inspector to make an inquiry concerning the proposed order".
The Highland Shellfish Management Organisation's (HSMO) proposed Highland Regulating Order aims to improve management of a variety of shellfish - including scallops, crabs and lobsters - around the area's coastline. Shellfisheries play an important role in the Highlands economy, for example by providing employment for around 1500 fishermen.
The Highland Shellfish Management Organisation is promoting the proposed Order, consultation on which took place during late 2004.