Views sought on new Joint Fisheries Statement as consultation launched
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The Scottish and UK Governments want people impacted by the fishing industry to complete a consultation on their new strategy.
Running for the next 12 weeks, the consultation addresses the draft Joint Fisheries Statement (JFS) which aims to meet the goals of the Fisheries Act 2020.
These goals are expected to help the UK have clean, healthy, safe, productive, and biologically diverse oceans and seas.
Banff and Buchan MP and fishing envoy David Duguid said: “I welcome the launch of the consultation on the UK-wide Joint Fisheries Statement.
“If we were still in the EU and in the Common Fisheries Policy, this process of developing localised fisheries management plans and all the other advantages of being an independent coastal state would not be possible.
“This is also a good example of the UK Government working with devolved administrations to provide the best outcome for our industry across the UK but particularly here in the north-east of Scotland.
“I encourage all stakeholders to take part in the consultation which will help shape a more resilient, prosperous and sustainable seafood industry.”
The JFS suggests ways to combine a successful fishing industry with ecological aims, including protecting and recovering fish stocks and reducing the effects of fishing on marine and coastal environments.
UK Environment Secretary George Eustice said: “The Fisheries Act has given us the powers to implement our own independent fisheries policy, improve our marine environment and make decisions based on the health of our fish stocks and not vested interests.
“Today, we are setting out our shared vision for a sustainable fishing industry that delivers for our fishermen, the environment and the whole Union.
“We have taken back control of our waters, and a year on from the Trade and Cooperation Agreement a positive picture is emerging for our fishing industry.
“We have seen an increase in quota that will amount to around £146 million by 2026 and we are investing £100M into coastal communities so that they can benefit from better infrastructure, new jobs and investment in skills.”
The UK Government and Devolved Governments will be organising joint information sessions to help understand the JFS to help people draft consultation responses.
For more information and to complete the consultation see: https://consult.defra.gov.uk/sustainability-devolution-and-legislation-team/jfs/
