Survey finds overwhelming support in the Highlands for Scottish fishing industry
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
MOST people in the Highlands believe fishing fleets should be safeguarded as seas become more crowded, according to a new survey.
A poll of 1000 adults by the Scottish Fishermen's Federation (SFF) reveals strong public support for protecting the industry as it faces pressures from new marine users.
With 98 per cent of Highlanders believing fleets should be protected due to offshore wind and renewables, 63 per cent have a positive view of the sector – up slightly on the 62 per cent Scottish average. Just one in 50 Scots disagree that the Scottish Government should do more to support the country’s fishing fleets.
Elspeth Macdonald, the chief executive of the SFF, said: "This survey proves conclusively that the people of Scotland firmly believe fishing should continue to be a priority as we balance the needs of different marine industries.
"With our seas becoming busier spaces, we call on the Scottish government to put the needs of our fishing sector at the heart of marine policy. Many of our coastal communities depend on fishing."
The research comes after the scrapping of the Scottish Government’s highly controversial highly protected marine areas policy which would have led to a further loss of 10 per cent of Scotland’s fishing grounds and led to an outcry from communities throughout Scotland. The poll showed 19 in 20 Scots recognise fishing is vital for coastal communities.
A further 94.2 per cent believe the industry is important to Scotland's economy. Additionally, 90.4 per cent think Scottish fish should support our nation's food security and 89 per cent believe the government should do more to support fishing.
The survey revealed that 65 per cent of respondents aged 16-24 have a positive opinion on the Scottish fishing sector, compared to 60 per cent in the 45-54 age group. The poll of 1000 people was carried out on 23 to 25 October.
Ms Macdonald added: "This survey leaves no doubt that the public stands firmly behind Scotland's fishing industry. With so many challenges ahead, from the changing climate to the cost of living crisis, these results give us confidence that people in Scotland recognise fishing must be part of our nation's future.
"As an industry there are always things that we can do better. But there is a lot for us to be loud and proud about in terms of producing quality, low-carbon and sustainable protein.
"The public recognises this and has made it clear that it wants fishing protected amid crowded seas. There is an understanding that losing our fleets would be a tragedy that leaves Scotland vulnerable and communities devastated."
The SFF was established in 1973 to represent a sustainable, prosperous fishing industry in Scotland. Fighting for the interests of 400 fishing vessels in Scotland’s fleet, the SFF is made up of eight groups which represent the sector from small creel boats to major pelagic and white fish trawlers.
