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Progress towards sustainable fisheries
22/11/2007
Scotland took a further step today to lead sustainable fisheries in Europe, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and the Environment Richard Lochhead said.
The Scottish White Fish Producers' Association will shortly apply for Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) accreditation for two key stocks - haddock and langoustines.
Speaking during a fisheries debate in Parliament, Mr Lochhead said:
"I am delighted that the Scottish White Fish Producers Association (SWFPA) is seeking this prestigious international charter mark.
"The MSC standard means consumers can buy fish with confidence - knowing that these stocks are being fished sustainably.
"It shows the Scottish industry's growing confidence that it is embarking on the lengthy and tough process to secure such an award.
"This means that fully 50 per cent of the Scottish fleet is committing itself to independent scrutiny to prove that it practises sustainable fishing.
"The new Scottish Government pledged at the outset a fresh start for Scotland's fisheries.
"That means fresh ideas. Our pilot scheme for voluntary real time closures is the first of its kind in Europe and has already attracted interest from member states and the Commission itself.
"We intend to build on this by working with our fishermen and environmental bodies to ensure a sustainable future. That is in everybody's interest.
"Clearly there are challenges in other stocks and other issues which we need to address in the coming weeks at Council meetings in Brussels.
"Our aim is for a fair and just deal for Scottish fisheries. We want good fishing opportunities for the Scottish fleet.
Michael Park, Chairman of the Scottish White Fish Producers Association said:
"The SWFPA intention to achieve MSC accreditation allied to their initiative for the development of Real Time Closures are but two of a number of initiatives being promoted by SWFPA placing Scottish fishermen at the European forefront of stock regeneration."
Helen McLachlan, Senior Marine Policy Officer, WWF Scotland, said:
"WWF is pleased to hear that these fisheries feel confident in applying for MSC certification. There will doubtless be issues that need to be addressed in order to attain the coveted MSC logo, but we know there are solutions available. WWF is keen that Scottish consumers can make a local and sustainable choice when buying fish and shellfish. If MSC certification is achieved by these fisheries this will be a significant step towards that goal."
Martin Wishart, Scottish Michelin star chef said:
"Its good that it is now recognised that some of the best products our seas have to offer are being professionally cared for by a long standing industry and it's a great credit to the grandfathers of this industry and will hopefully now encourage a new generation of fishermen to return to this industry and be able to fish the seas sustainably. Its right that the eyes of Europe and further beyond should take note. I personally use Creel caught langoustines almost every day at the restaurant as they are a world class product and one that Scotland should be justifiably proud of."
The SWFPA will apply for accreditation in the next week.
The MSC accreditation process taken between 18 and 24 months to complete.