4 February, 2008

FISHERMEN can earn extra days at sea as a new conservation scheme get under way today (Monday).

The Conservation Credits Scheme, negotiated at last December’s EU Fisheries Council and approved by the European Commission on Friday, rewards crews who help conserve cod stocks.

It introduces strict conservation measures such as the voluntary closure of areas when juvenile or spawning cod are encountered by boats and controls on net sizes.

In return, fishermen will be given back days at sea they would otherwise lose as part of the 2008 quota settlement.

Scottish fishing minister Richard Lochhead said the scheme was "historic" as it allows the Scottish Government rather than Europe to decide on days at sea.

"This scheme represents a new and sustainable approach to fishing in Scotland. Europe's go-ahead for this scheme recognises and rewards the responsible leadership our industry has shown towards conservation.

"For the first time the Scottish Government, working with the industry and conservationists, has been trusted to decide on the allocation of days at sea for its own fleet. Previously this was handled by Europe," he said.

He added that the eyes of Europe would be on Scottish fishermen this week as the scheme gets under way.

"The Conservation Credits Scheme helps us strike the balance between sustainable fishing and a thriving fishing industry," he said.

The scheme is supported by WWF Scotland, whose senior marine policy officer, Helen McLachlan said: "This is a welcome step in the right direction. The Scottish fleet is leading the way with this initiative and we hope that this will form part of a wider package to help the rebuilding of North Sea cod stocks.

"Young cod need to stay in the water to spawn and we must find the most effective ways of achieving this. We look forward to monitoring progress throughout the year."