Sea fisheries, aquaculture and processing businesses in Scotland will receive more than GBP 8 million (USD 9.9 million, EUR 9.4 million) of EU and Scottish Government funding, including GBP 1.6 million (USD 2 million, EUR 1.9 million) for projects in Shetland to boost growth, protect jobs and develop sustainability.
The latest round of the European and Maritime Fisheries Fund (EMFF) will deliver 41 projects to contribute to the sustainable management of fisheries and marine ecosystems and help businesses upgrade or modernize their equipment, and move into new markets.
Scottish Fisheries Secretary Fergus Ewing announced the funding on a visit to Lerwick to meet the Shetland Fishermen’s Association (SFA), which is one of seven projects in Shetland to receive funding. It will get more than GBP 11,500 (USD 14,283, EUR 13,552) to improve safety equipment for its South Shore Fishing Association vessels.
SFA Executive Officer Simon Collins said, "The safety of fishermen is paramount, and this association has long championed the welfare of its members. We're pleased to be receiving financial support to further our goals in this area."
Other projects benefitting from the EMFF include Box Pool Solutions in Aberdeen, which provides boxes for fishermen to sell their produce at markets including Peterhead. It will receive nearly GBP 1.2 million (USD 1.5 million, EUR 1.4 million) for its new facility and equipment.
The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) will receive GBP 1.8 million (USD 2.2 million, EUR 2.1 million) for its independent on-board observer scheme, which supports initiatives to address potential problems related to discard bans.
“This GBP 8 million investment will encourage growth and protect jobs in the sea fisheries and aquaculture industry by allowing businesses to upgrade technology and buy new equipment,” said Ewing.
Of the GBP 8 million, GBP 6 million (USD 7.5 million, EUR 7.1 million) of the funding will come from the EU, GBP 1.5 million (USD 1.9 million, EUR 1.8 million) from Scottish Government GBP 500,000 (USD 621,141, EUR 589,266) from other public sources.
