22 April, 2008

FIRST Minister Alex Salmond and his wife were at Fraserburgh Harbour yesterday (Monday) where they officially named Scotland’s new fisheries research vessel FRV Alba Na Mara.

Alba Na Mara, meaning the Scottish Seas, will protect the fish stock in Scottish waters and undertake research of the marine environment to support the sustainable management of Scotland’s fisheries.

Mr Salmond said: “This is a magnificent vessel, the biggest and most sophisticated ship to be built by MacDuff shipyards, and a significant addition to the Fisheries Research Services fleet.”

He said the vessel was “a striking example of Scotland’s industry and innovation”, having been designed and built in the country whose seas it was charged with protecting.

“We must do all we can to safeguard these (fishing) industries and ensure science plays its central role in monitoring, researching and advising to build a more sustainable, profitable sector.

“Already tasked with 270 days at sea, the Alba na Mara will help us do both. It will monitor our fish and shellfish stock while researching our marine ecology to help sustainable management of our fisheries.

“I congratulate all involved in the creation of this vessel and whish them the very best success for their days at sea.”

FRS chief executive Robin Cook said: “Alba na Mara will play a pivotal role in ensuring that marine research carried out by FRS remains of the highest calibre.”

Alba na Mara is a replacement for FRV Clupea - a research vessel that has been in operation with FRS for 40 years.