Official statement in response to the UK-EU fisheries deal from Elspeth Macdonald, Chief Executive of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation.
“This deal is a horror show for Scottish fishermen, far worse than Boris Johnson’s botched Brexit agreement.
Giving away a national asset such as our rich and healthy fishing grounds for no discernible benefit not only fails both of these tests, but is a disgrace that will ensure the enmity of this proud industry for many years to come.”
UK-EU deal a betrayal to fishing sector
The Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association (SPFA) says today’s UK-EU deal is a betrayal of the fishing industry and the communities it supports.
Ian Gatt, chief executive of the SPFA, the representative organisation for Scotland’s mackerel, herring and blue whiting fishermen, said: “The outcome of this deal is an utter betrayal of the promises made to us on Brexit and the benefits it would bring to fishing, including control of our own waters.
“We met with the EU Director General last November who at that time was looking for a five-year extension for fishing opportunities in UK waters, and it beggars belief that this has been extended to 12 years, which ties the hands of future UK governments in negotiations.
“In granting an extension in the access to our waters, the UK negotiators at the very least should have pressed for a reciprocal arrangement of more fish for us to catch, which would have also given increased volumes for our processing sector. This has been a terrible negotiation carried out by the UK, and which shows a complete indifference to the fortunes of our fishing communities, as well as our national food security.”
