Jim Mather, Argyll’s MSP and Minister for Enterprise, Energy and Tourism, has formally added his voice in support of the stance adopted by Fisheries Minister Richard Lochhead over the EU’s latest threat to Scotland’s decimated fishing industry. Mr Mather says: ‘I very much welcome this intervention from Richard Lochhead who has proved to be an extremely effective spokesman for Scottish fishing at a time when the industry faces considerable challenge. ‘Nobody can or would deny that there are extreme difficulties with west coast white fish stocks. But to close the entire area to all trawl fisheries is disproportionate because of the potentially devastating effect that would have on our valuable Nephrops fleet. This fleet is the mainstay for our west coast fishing communities and estimated to be worth over £30m per annum. ‘While some exceptions are being made in proposed trawling restrictions, it is strongly suggested that the boats would be forced to use gear of such selectivity that they would be unable to fish in a viable manner. ‘The proposals are extreme and it is a concern that such draconian proposals should come forward at this time when other economic pressures are in force and with such a restricted timeframe in which to propose alternative action. West Coast fishermen recognise that problems exist in the white fish stock levels and are looking at ways that might help stocks recover. ‘Like the Fisheries Minister I am confident that Team Scotland’s expertise can reach a better deal and provide some much needed breathing space for our hard pressed fishing industry.’ The BBC’s Mark Mardell, reporting from Brussels and to report on the outcome of talks o the mater, says: ‘No one, including the commission, expects the commission proposal to survive: it’s a classic over-bid, to concentrate minds. ‘What ministers may well opt for is “the Scottish model”. This means getting rid of the widely ridiculed practice of throwing dead fish back in the sea merely to avoid breaching rules set up to avoid killing endangered fish – rules on using clever nets that avoid catching endangered fish and rigorously avoiding fishing in what amount to nursery areas for cod and other fish in short supply.’

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