Fishing quota increases could boost Scottish landings by £10m

Fishing: Scientists say most white fish stocks are recovering, although cod remains a challenge.© STV

The body that advises on European fishing quotas is recommending hefty increases to the amount Scottish fishermen are allowed to catch.

The International Council for the Exploration of the Seas (Ices) said stocks of haddock, saithe, whiting and plaice were all recovering strongly, although cod stocks remained a challenge.

West of Scotland haddock catches could be increased by up to 55%, with the herring quota in the region raised by 20% and nephrops up by 18% if the EU adopts the advice.

In the North Sea, the council advises a 15% increase in haddock, saithe and herring and an 11% rise in whiting. Cod stocks would be reduced by 20% and nephrops by 22% to protect the long-term future of the species.

Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead said the increases could boost the value of fish landed in Scotland by £10m.

He said: "We are committed to sustainable fisheries, supporting the stock recovery that will in turn underpin the future success of the Scottish fishing industry. If the scientific advice published today is followed at the end of year EU Council, it will mean both opportunities and challenges for our fleet.

"This advice demonstrates that that there has been a remarkable and welcome turnaround from two years ago when there were quota cuts across the board. I'm pleased that the advice points to continuing healthy increases in quota for most of our key commercial stocks, reflecting a positive picture in their sustainability and abundance."

Mr Lochhead went on: "The overall picture promises significant economic benefits for the Scottish fleet and could see around a £10 million increase in the value of landings, if all quotas are caught. However, we will need to work closely with fishermen to see how we can avoid a reduced cod quota leading to significant increases in discards.

"The mixed fishery of the North Sea makes it difficult to avoid cod, therefore we will need to find creative solutions that maximise sustainable fishing opportunities. In the coming months we will be engaging closely with industry on this."

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