|
George Lyon, Liberal Democrat MEP for Scotland, has met with representatives of the Scottish fishing industry to see what more can be done to support fishermen from Brussels.
Since the European Commission published its proposals to reform the Common Fisheries Policy earlier this year it has become clear that the road to negotiating a final agreement will be a long one. It is vital that the voice of the Scottish industry is heard in that process.
Mr Lyon has already met with the EU Commissioner responsible, Maria Damanaki, this year and has submitted several Written Questions to the European Commission demanding reassurances on discards and the devolvement of decision making to the regions.
Commenting after the meeting, Mr Lyon said: “The fishing industry plays a crucial role in coastal communities in Scotland and its long term sustainability must be safeguarded.
“A future without fishing in Peterhead, Fraserburgh, Scrabster, Ullapool, Eyemouth and many others is a future I do not want to imagine.
“The reform of the CFP presents a huge opportunity for genuine progress and we must make sure that a balance is struck between protecting the future of the Scottish fleet and the long term sustainability of fish stocks.
“I will continue to work closely with Scotland’s fishing industry as the battle over CFP reform intensifies so that future generations can enjoy a fishing regime that is fair, sustainable and in the best interests of Scotland.”
Should people be 'stimulated' to eat white fish alternatives to cod?
