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Riding out the downturn
22/06/2009
Work begins this week to assess the impact the recession is having on Scotland's fishing industry.
A detailed study will look at how issues such as quota levels, fuel and fish prices, and the days at sea regime are affecting fishermen in the current economic climate.
The announcement came as Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead flew to Luxembourg for the latest round of fisheries and agriculture talks.
Mr Lochhead has also written to European Fisheries Commissioner Joe Borg requesting a meeting to discuss the economic study and similar work being carried out at a European level.
Mr Lochhead said:
"The tough restrictions imposed on the fleet this year by the EU, combined with the global economic situation, are undoubtedly making life challenging for some of our fishermen. As part of the Scottish Government's updated economic recovery programme, we continue to do everything in our power to support our fishing industry during these difficult times.
"Our new economic impact assessment will provide a detailed picture of the issues and allow us to work with the industry and Europe to map out a profitable future for our fishermen.
"When I met Commissioner Borg at the European Seafood Exposition in April, I urged him to commission an economic study at a European level. I am pleased to see that this has come to fruition and we are now seeking a meeting over the summer to discuss the complementary work we are doing.
"Working in partnership I am convinced we can find new ways to support one of Scotland's most valuable industries through these challenging times."
The research aim is to demonstrate how the sharp adjustments required by the Cod Recovery Plan and the West of Scotland measures have impacted the profit and long-term viability of the UK fleet. Specifically, the study will aim to:
- Produce profit and loss estimates for key fleet segments
- Show a comparison of the present year, with and without the new arrangements
- Illustrate a range of scenarios in graphs showing sensitivity to various factors - fuel prices, fish prices, quota, days at sea allowances and catch rates