Listen
North Sea cod stocks
15/10/2007
Richard Lochhead today welcomed recognition by independent scientists that the sacrifices made by Scotland's fishing communities are leading to the recovery of cod stocks.
For the first time in more than six years the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has not called for a complete closure of north sea cod fisheries ahead of crucial negotiations leading up to the December European fisheries council when catch allocations are agreed.
The Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment, said:
"This reflects the substantial effort made by Scottish fishermen and confirms what we and our fishermen have been saying - that North Sea cod stocks are recovering.
"The ICES advice confirms what we set out in our recent blueprint for North Sea cod which provides the best route toward a sustainable cod fishery.
"The terms of the debate have changed. Thanks to all the sacrifices Scottish and other fishermen have made we are now talking not about getting recovery started, but about rebuilding what already well underway.
"While some of Scotland's key stocks are healthy, the science for others is challenging. That points to tough negotiations ahead in the weeks to come."