European backing for protection of herring stocks

Fisheries commission in favour of asking EC to compromise on reducing catch limit

By Cameron Brooks

Published:

The European Parliament yesterday backed a resolution aimed at protecting herring stocks off the west coast of Scotland.

The fisheries committee voted in favour of urging the European Commission to compromise on its “draconian” plans to reduce the catch limit from 27,000 tonnes a year to just 13,000.

The motion was lodged by Scottish MEP Struan Stevenson who commissioned an independent investigation into the issue.

Speaking from Brussels last night, he said he hoped the parliament could broker a deal with the commission so the fleet could land 20,000 tonnes of herring a year.

Mr Stevenson warned that fishing communities would be hit hard if the commission’s proposals are approved. “This adds to the gloom already being faced by the industry,” he added. “It will either drive people out of work or encourage boats to move into other fisheries that are under pressure.”

The west coast herring industry is worth £3million a year to the Scottish economy. The Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association last night welcomed the news.

Chief executive Derek Duthie said: “I am very pleased that the European Parliament is supporting us and passed this resolution.

“The French presidency is working with the commission and member states to try and thrash out a compromise on this and some progress has been made.”

Mr Stevenson said independent scientists have reported to him that the catch limit could still comfortably be set at 27,000 tonnes a year. “It is my understanding from the Pelagic Advisory Council this would be sustainable for the herring stock and for the long term viability of the fleet,” said the Conservative MEP.

Mr Duthie said: “We agree a 50% cut in the catch is not needed. However, we do accept this stock needs careful management and we welcome the fact a new plan will be put in place.”

The Fisheries Council is meeting on December 15 in Brussels to set quotas and terms and conditions for the Scottish industry for the following year.

SNP MEP Ian Hudghton claims Scottish Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead should lead the negotiations rather than “inexperienced” UK Fisheries Minister Huw Irranca-Davies. Labour MEP Catherine Stihler dismissed the call as a party political stunt to further the Nationalist’s agenda.

But Mr Stevenson said he saw some merit in the proposal because he fears the commission will “run rings” round Mr Irranca-Davies.