A fishing sector political hustings will take place in Fraserburgh this Friday (April 17th) at Kinnaird House, bringing together candidates and members of the local fishing community ahead of next month’s Scottish parliamentary election.
Hosted by the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) and Fraserburgh Harbour, the event forms part of a series of regional hustings taking place in three of the country’s key fishing locations. Hustings have already been held in Shetland and Eyemouth.
The Fraserburgh event follows a high-profile national fishing hustings at Holyrood, where participating parties acknowledged both the significance of the sector and the numerous challenges it faces.
Recent polling by Opinion Matters on behalf of the SFF highlights the strength of feeling locally. The North East region of Scotland recorded a high net positive opinion of the fishing industry, with 62% expressing support.
The same research found that 89% of respondents believe Scottish-produced food is as important as Scottish-produced energy, while 87% agreed the fishing fleet should be protected amid the expansion of offshore wind.
Confirmed panellists for the event are James Adams (Con), Karen Adam (SNP), Conrad Ritchie (Reform) and Alistair Carmichael (Lib Dems) and N D R McLennan (Independent). Scottish Labour and the Scottish Greens are still to confirm their panellists.
Elspeth Macdonald, Chief Executive of the SFF, said: “Fraserburgh and the other fishing ports in the North East of Scotland are vital parts of our diverse fishing sector and it’s positive to see local candidates standing for election at Holyrood making time in the campaign trail to set out what they will do for fishing if elected.
“The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation is encouraging all candidates to Stand Up for Fishing and the hustings will be a great opportunity for them to set out their stall.”
Pamela Neri, Fraserburgh Harbour Development Manager, said: “Fraserburgh Harbour is a cornerstone of the local economy directly facilitating business, jobs and income for one third of our population. Fishing is our number one business in Fraserburgh and we want it to stay that way. That means the challenges felt by the industry are felt right across the wider community as well as the port.
“This event gives candidates the chance to hear directly from those in our community involved in the fishing industry and its supply chain so they can better represent and support the region as a whole. We need them to work for Fraserburgh, but also know that we are ready to work with them.
“Together, we can raise the profile of the Harbour and our fishing community, strengthen our economy and ensure that Fraserburgh’s longterm development remains a priority at regional and national level.”
The hustings will take place between 10.30am and 12.00pm in the offices of The Scottish White Fish Producers Association at Kinnaird House, South Harbour Road, Fraserburgh, AB43 9TA.
Organisers have strong local participation to ensure the voice of the fishing community is heard in the run-up to the election in May.
