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Richard Lochhead |
New Scottish seafood promotion group meets for first time.
A new body that aims to maximise the value of all Scottish seafood and encourage greater profitability for the sector met for the first time today (Tuesday, January 17).
Following plans set out by Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead in June, the Scottish Seafood Partnership has now been launched and will be chaired by Iain MacSween, Chief Executive of the Scottish Fishermen’s Organisation. The group includes all parts of the seafood supply chain: fish farmers, catchers, processors, sellers and retailers.
Mr Lochhead said: “Scotland has some of the highest quality and most delicious seafood anywhere in the world, therefore we must do all we can to maximise its value, right throughout the supply chain. That’s why I’m delighted that the Scottish Seafood Partnership has been launched today as I believe it will have a key role in driving this work forward.
“Membership of the Partnership reflects all parts of the industry and it is now well positioned to act as an industry-led body that can deliver a strategic approach to the seafood and farmed fish sectors. I thank Iain MacSween and the other Partnership members for contributing their knowledge and expertise to the group.
“I firmly believe that industry must be closely involved in the decision making process, as we work together to maximise the value of sustainable fisheries in Scotland, from the fishing net to the kitchen plate.”
Iain MacSween, Scottish Seafood Partnership Chairman, said: “It was an honour to be invited by Richard Lochhead to chair the Scottish Seafood Partnership. This is a positive development for fisheries and seafood management in Scotland. I look forward to working with my fellow members to promote a sustainable and profitable sector to the benefit of all, from the fishermen and producers right through to those who enjoy eating our fantastic fish and shellfish.”
The Scottish Seafood Partnership will meet on a quarterly basis and provide strategic advice to Scottish Ministers, the industry, Seafood Scotland and Seafish (in Scotland). Members of the Partnership will participate in the group as individuals rather than as representatives of their parent organisations.
Scottish Seafood Partnership membership comprises:
Mr Iain MacSween, Scottish Fishermen’s Organisation Limited
Mr Alan Coghill, Scottish Fishermens’ Federation
Mr Robert Duthie, Denholm Seafoods Limited
Mr Simon Leiper, Shetland Catch Limited
Mr Will Clark, Peterhead & Fraserburgh Fish Processors' Association
Mr Alastair Salveson, Dawnfresh Seafoods
Mr Ross Dougal, Fish Salesman Association
Mr John Wallace, Peterhead Port Authority
Mr John Dyson, British Hospitality Association
Prof Phil Thomas, Scottish Salmon Producers’ Association
Ms Claire Pescod, Marine Stewardship Council
Mr Paul Williams, Seafish
Ms Libby Woodhatch, Seafood Scotland
Mr David Anderson, Scottish Association of Fish Producer Organisation
Ms Catherine Pazderka, British Retail Consortium
Further information on the Scottish Seafood Partnership may be found at:
http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Business-Industry/Food-Industry/Seafood/SeafoodPartnership
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