Fishermen start netting payments, says Finance Secretary

West Coast fishermen are to start receiving payments from an emergency £5 million fund, Kate Forbes

MSP announced this week.

It was established by the Scottish Government after the coronavirus caused the collapse of lucrative overseas export markets to places like Spain and Italy where west coast seafood is revered by continental chefs.

The lockdown restrictions then slammed the door on domestic tourism in Scotland – further slashing demand for delicious delicacies such as langoustine, prawns and crab.

But Ms Forbes said today that initial payments are now being made to owners of all full-time Scottish-registered fishing vessels of 12 metres length and under, the vast majority of which fish the creel and dive sectors.

Many of those operate in the remote or island communities, including those in the finance minister’s Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency.

Ms Forbes said: ‘Our fishermen have been particularly hard hit, as the impact on their markets happened well before the lockdown in Scotland.

‘It is important that they are given a helping hand, and I’m pleased that the first payments are on their way to fishermen on the West Coast who are struggling.’

‘Our seafood is renowned internationally and the markets will return, but it is important that we help fishermen through the next few weeks. These grants will do that.’

Donald Cameron, an MSP for the Highlands and Islands and shadow finance minister, said it was ‘right’ that both governments provide emergency support to the vital sector.

‘The grants will play a vital part in sustaining the industry through these incredibly difficult times, so that it can take advantage of the many opportunities as the UK leaves the Common Fisheries Policy.

‘As a Highlands and Islands MSP, I am very well aware of how important fishing is to the economy of the West Coast and I will be closely monitoring how the scheme unfolds and keeping in touch with local fishermen in the meantime.’

There is still concern, however, for the wider seafood sector which already one of the most ‘fragile areas of Scotland’s economy’ despite the number of jobs it supports and the exports it makes.

£10 million worth of assistance has been made available by the Scottish government to those in the processing sector who can access grants and loans.

Donna Fordyce, interim head of Seafood Scotland, said: ‘With most export routes almost entirely closed off and around 80 per cent of shellfish and seafood normally destined for international markets, the industry is currently on its knees but this package will help many seafood businesses live beyond the impact of COVID-19.’