16 October 2007

FOR THE first time in more than six years the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has not called for a complete closure of North Sea cod fisheries.

The announcement yesterday was welcomed by industry leaders in Scotland.

This news comes ahead of crucial negotiations leading up to the December European fisheries council, when catch allocations are agreed.

Fisheries secretary Richard Lochhead said: “This reflects the substantial effort made by Scottish fishermen and confirms what we and our fishermen have been saying, that North Sea cod stocks are recovering.

“The ICES advice confirms what we set out in our recent blueprint for North Sea cod which provides the best route toward a sustainable cod fishery.

“The terms of the debate have changed. Thanks to all the sacrifices Scottish and other fishermen have made, we are now talking not about getting recovery started, but about rebuilding what is already well underway.

“While some of Scotland’s key stocks are healthy, the science for others is challenging. That points to tough negotiations ahead in the weeks to come.”

Scottish Fisherman’s Federation chief executive Bertie Armstrong added: “For the mainstay Scottish stocks, we are delighted to note that sustainable harvesting is recognised.

“For the iconic cod, at last we have scientific confirmation of the fishermen’s observations that the stock in the North Sea is recovering.

“This is welcomed wholeheartedly, especially since cod recovery measures impact on the vital Scottish fisheries catching langoustines and haddock as main target species.

“This vindicates previous painful measures including the decommissioning of 65 percent of the Scottish whitefish fleet.

“Protection of the increasing stock is at the centre of the Scottish industry’s approach to the negotiations for catching opportunity in 2008 which will be based on the science described today.

“We have an active and ambitious programme of measures aimed at cod avoidance, including amongst other things voluntary closures and onboard observer programmers.

“Sustainable harvesting of the wonderful renewable resources in our waters is our aim and our responsibility.”