Scotland: 'We deserve to be rewarded'

 As European Union ministers prepare to thrash out a series of deals in annual fisheries negotiations, Scotland's fisheries secretary asserted that he will push for bigger fishing quotas.

Richard Lochhead claimed fleets that take "decisive action" to tackle discards and launch schemes such as Real Time Closures should be rewarded with options to buy back days at sea and be allowed to land more of what is currently discarded.

"Our fleets are leading Europe by example through adopting innovative conservation measures, and they deserve to be rewarded," said Lochhead. "I will be pushing hard for greater catch quotas to be made available for at least some of our fleets next year."

Lochhead added that at the forthcoming negotiations he will "pursue outcomes that are balanced and just," and that efforts to rebuild cod stocks will continue to dominate.

At a European Council meeting from 14 to 15 December, EU ministers will meet to set in ink Europe's 2010 fishing quota. In mid-October, the European Commission presented its quota proposals.

During last week's parliamentary debate in Scotland, Lochhead confirmed that the industry will help co-produce a new fisheries action plan in partnership with the Scottish government. According to the government, the plan — to be published early next year — will aim to provide "some respite from tough European restrictions" and the global economic recession.

The plan is expected to comprise four key elements: improving the wider international framework for fisheries management; managing fishing quotas and effort allocations in a way that promotes sustainability and profitability; working with the industry to help maximize the value of the catch; and ensuring Scotland has a "resilient fleet crewed by a skilled workforce."

Lochhead added that the government would continue to support the country's Eat More Fish campaign. According to Seafood Scotland, between May — when the campaign was launched — and October, total fresh seafood sales at retail in Scotland increased 10 percent in value, to GPB 5.3 million (USD 8.8 million, EUR 5.9 million), and 12 percent in volume, to 579 metric tons, in the 24 weeks ending 3 October.

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