Na h-Eileanan an Iar SNP MP, Angus MacNeil has welcomed the £700,000 funding announced today from the Scottish Government, which will back an industry action plan to achieve a more profitable, and sustainable seafood sector.

The report from the Scottish Seafood Partnership, which brings together representatives from the fisheries, aquaculture and processing sectors, has identified six key areas to further enhance the industry’s reputation and market reach:

• quality, standards and provenance – position Scotland as a world leading provider of premium quality seafood
• market development – identifying and capitalising on markets that offer the greatest potential for growth
• collaboration and effective supply chains – the industry will share knowledge and information, as well as strengthening the supply chain
• skilled workforce – providing excellent training and career opportunities for those already in the industry, and those interested in joining
• financial and legal relationships – improve access to finances and review planning processes to ensure businesses can respond to commercial opportunities quickly
• forecasting and horizon scanning – developing strategies to ensure the industry develops future leaders and identified and promotes innovation

 

Angus MacNeil MP said:

“This £700,000 funding announced today by Richard Lochhead MSP, is very welcome news for the seafood sector.

“In our own islands, the seafood industry is vital to the economy and along with the rest of Scotland our seafood is highly regarded as being amongst the most delicious on offer and this funding boost will help take forward the six key areas identified by the Scottish Seafood Partnership.  I will be looking for island producers to be involved and get benefits from this initiative.”

ENDS