Wildlife group pleased with fisheries progress

Published on Wednesday 28 December 2011 00:00

WILDLIFE experts have described 2011 as a “mixed year” for Scotland’s fish stocks and fishing industry.

The WWF said that, while quotas will be increased in 2012 for some Scottish stocks, including west coast haddock, it was disappointed that cod numbers had yet to recover sufficiently – despite the continued efforts of the industry.

This has resulted in cuts in the number of days vessels can spend at sea during the year.

However, the conservation group said it was pleased that efforts to fish more responsibly, through the use of more selective gear and techniques that leave more fish in the sea, continued apace during 2011.

Dr Mireille Thom, WWF Scotland’s senior marine policy officer, said: “In the past year, fish landings by Scottish vessels amounted to £438 million, confirming the continued economic and social importance of the fishing industry in Scotland.

“While some fishing quotas are set to increase, 2011 was a bit of a mixed year for fish stocks and the fishing industry in Scotland.

“While we are disappointed that industry efforts to protect cod stocks are taking longer than hoped for, we are nevertheless pleased to see continued progress made towards more sustainable fishing practices in Scotland.

“As we go into 2012, it is essential that this momentum is not lost as the European Parliament debates reform of the rules governing fishing. Everyone agrees the current way of making decisions in the EU on fishing is well past its sell-by date.

“It’s crucial that industry, scientists, government and other stakeholders continue to work together to protect and grow Scotland’s fish stocks. The future of Scotland’s fishing industry depends on today’s actions.”

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Last fish in the Clyde

Wednesday, December 28, 2011 at 01:35 PM

WWF are the only wildlife group who would say such rubbish. Over the last decade their policy of working so close to the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation SFF has resulted in them just being the environmental mouth piece of the SFF. They lack on the ground local information, they ignore completely the dire state of the west coast & Clyde inshore fishery. Lochhead continues to ignore the scientific evidence with as you can see WWFs backing for increased quota against all the evidence. For a more balanced view check out Copy & paste http:www.bluemarinefoundation.com Front page f2f news top two articles. WWF are slowly losing all credibility in marine matters. Pity in the past they were credible.

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