Trawler Photos

The message of a new manifesto unveiled by the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation is that politicians need to stand up for the fishing industry as they seek election at next year’s Holyrood election. The manifesto highlights the importance of the fishing industry to Scotland’s coastal and island communities ‘Fishing is not just part of Scotland’s heritage – it is modern, efficient, professional and globally recognised. It provides and jobs and is the essential bedrock for so many businesses that are part of Scotland’s seafood chain,’ said  SFF chief executive Elspeth Macdonald. ‘Yet as we enter the second quarter of the 21st century, our… [...]

Representatives of the European blue economy value chain have highlighted at a meeting with Commissioner Costas Kadis that energy transition will not be achievable without strong public support and clear policy signals. The industry representatives stress that EU rules limiting the possibility to increase spaces on board are incompatible with modern, cleaner propulsion systems and innovative vessel designs. These constraints not only hinder the deployment of hybrid, electric and alternative fuel technologies – which often require additional space on board – but also prevent improvements in safety and well-being for crews, ultimately undermining the attractiveness of the sector for young… [...]