The Scottish Government has been criticised for announcing a significant change to the Economic Link requirement for fishing vessels just days before it comes into force.
Rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon confirmed that from January 1, pelagic vessels will be required to land 70 per cent of both mackerel and herring into Scotland, up from the current combined requirement of 55 per cent
The Economic Link is intended to ensure fishing activity benefits Scotland’s economy and coastal communities.
However, this decision comes at a time when the pelagic sector is already facing major quota cuts, leaving many vessels, particularly smaller boats, under severe financial strain.
Buckie-based Scottish Conservative fishing spokesman, Tim Eagle, said: “This announcement is appallingly late.
“Announcing a major policy change in the final days of December, which takes effect from January 1, gives fishermen almost no time to adjust.
“This sudden intervention has come with little opportunity for scrutiny and risks causing upset and frustration across the fleet, especially for those already struggling with reduced quotas.
“The Scottish Government must urgently engage with the sector and ensure the impacts of this decision are properly addressed.
“Once again, Scottish fishermen are being treated as an afterthought in decision making regarding the future of their industry.”
