26 June, 2007

THE SCOTTISH Fishermen's Federation (SFF) has elected a new president. Ian Gatt will take over from Alex West who is retiring after three years in the job.

Mr Gatt has been the federation's vice-president and has 30 years experience in the commercial fishing world ranging from langoustines to deep water species.

Welcoming his appointment, he said his focus would be on the next European quota talks. "An immediate priority will be the forthcoming discussions that will lead to the final decisions on catching opportunity for next year."

The SFF has elected two new vice-presidents, James Brown, of the Fish Salesmen's Association (Scotland) Ltd, and Anglo Scottish Fishermen's Association chairman David Shiel.

SFF chief executive Bertie Armstrong said: "I am delighted at these appointments as they bring real experience and knowledge to the federation across a breadth of fisheries.

"I would also like to pay special tribute to Alex West for his excellent stewardship of the federation over the past three years."