‘Mackerel wars’ threat to Scots fishing industry

NEW talks aimed at finding a solution to the so-called “mackerel wars” have ended in deadlock, with Scottish ministers warning the ongoing row is jeopardising the future of the industry.

The north-east Atlantic mackerel industry is estimated to be worth more than £1 billion, and Scotland’s share is expected to be about 20 per cent of the total catch.

However, Richard Lochhead, Scotland’s fisheries secretary, said this could be harmed by a third year in succession without an international deal on the division of catches.

A spokesman for Mr Lochhead said: “Negotiations have taken place in Bergen this week between the EU, Norway, Faroe Islands and Iceland, to seek agreement on each country’s mackerel quotas for 2012 and beyond.

“Talks closed today with a decision to resume discussions in early February. Three previous rounds have failed to reach a deal for 2012, while numerous rounds of talks since 2009 have been unsuccessful.”

Mr Lochhead said: “Mackerel is a healthy and highly sought-after product, as illustrated by increasing landing prices in recent years.

“However, unless we all commit to meaningful negotiations, a £1bn fishery could be compromised.”

He added: “If fishing continues at current levels, we face the prospect of the mackerel stock falling below safe limits by as early as 2014. That’s why Scotland’s priority is to secure an international agreement.”

Ian Gatt, chief executive of the Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association, said: “It is apparent that the EU and Norway are continually making fresh offers to try and achieve a breakthrough, but both Iceland and the Faroes are refusing to move an inch from their position.”