Fish quota cuts raise fleet fears

The proposed cuts to fishing quotas have triggered concerns

Cuts in quotas have been proposed for Scotland's beleaguered white fish and deep sea fleets.

Industry leaders said the negotiations between the EU and Norway were extremely disappointing and would have a major impact across the country.

Scottish Fishermen's Federation chief executive Bertie Armstrong said a 14% cut in cod quotas was unworkable.

Fisheries Minister Ross Finnie said that decision was "particularly disappointing".

The talks with Norway take place ahead of the forthcoming EU Fisheries Council meeting in Brussels.

We are determined to secure a deal which allows the industry to utilise quota sensibly whilst meeting our commitment to cod conservation Ross Finnie Fisheries Minister

The Norwegian negotiations ended with a 14% cut in cod but an increase in the amount of haddock available to Europe's fishing fleets.

Mr Finnie said: "While there is some good news in today's agreement this result will not be welcomed by either our whitefish or pelagic fleets.

"The decision on cod is particularly disappointing. On the basis of the science and sensible management of the fishery we had argued for a roll-over.

"The decision on north sea haddock builds in some much-needed stability for the Scottish white fish fleet."

He said the Scottish Executive was determined to secure "pragmatic arrangements" on the number of days at sea when EU fisheries ministers meet in December.

"We are determined to secure a deal which allows the industry to utilise quota sensibly whilst meeting our commitment to cod conservation," he said.