September 17, 2008

Establishment of EU fund to support sustainable Scottish fisheries

Scotland's fisheries business, including vessel owners, aquaculture business, port operators and processers would benefit from GBP 43 million worth of investment from a new European Fisheries Fund (EFF) that is to last until 2013.

According to the SNP, of the GBP43 million, GBP19 million has already been allocated for a 3-year plan to help the fishing industry adapt to an era of high fuel prices.

In addition, Ministers last month pledged a further GBP9 million towards this industry wide initiative.

This makes a total of GBP29 million of support available through the Fishing Industry Plan with additional support from Sea Fish.

The Scottish Government has also published guidance on how to apply for EFF funding now that the program is open to applications.

Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead said that fishing is a key industry for Scotland supporting many coastal communities. Fisheries, fish farming and processing contribute well over 1 billion GBP each year to the Scottish economy.

The EFF investment will help modernize and secure the sustainability of the fishing industry. It will promote sustainable economic development in rural and coastal communities and improve the international competitiveness of the fishing industry.