Salmon farmers join fishers and processors to challenge HPMA plans
‘Seafood Coalition’ launches petition calling for Scottish Government to ‘follow the science’
Scotland’s salmon farmers have joined forces with fishers to challenge the proposed SNP/Green ban on commercial activities in substantial stretches of coastal waters.
Trade body Salmon Scotland, together with six other major seafood organisations representing hundreds of vessels and processors, has launched a petition at the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood, Edinburgh.
The united plea urges the Scottish Government to drop its current plans for Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs).
Instead, the ‘Seafood Coalition’ calls for ministers to “follow the science” and develop an evidence-based approach that considers all pressures on the marine environment in a balanced manner.
The coalition includes the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, Seafood Scotland, Scottish Association of Fish Producers’ Organisations, Community Fisheries Inshore Alliance and Scottish Seafood Association.
Bute House Agreement
The Scottish Government’s proposals are part of the Bute House Agreement between the SNP and the Scottish Green Party. The Greens have agreed to vote for the minority SNP administration’s legislation in the Scottish Parliament in return for influence over the government’s policy and two ministerial posts.
The Bute House Agreement stated that at least 10% of Scotland’s seas should become HPMAs by 2026, including restrictions on human activities like aquaculture and fishing.
Tavish Scott, chief executive of Salmon Scotland, joined other coalition members at Holyrood today to highlight the crucial role of coastal communities can play in signing the petition to ensure their voices are heard.
The petition also asks for a review of the results from the current marine protected areas (MPAs) that already cover 228,118 km², or 37%, of Scotland’s seas. Salmon Scotland said one in three salmon farms already operates responsibly in MPAs, with many of these areas being established after the farms were already in operation.
The petition also suggests learning from the pilot programs of HPMAs in other UK waters.
'Scant justification for HPMAs'
Scott said: “Scottish salmon and Scottish seafood are the best in the world, but HPMAs put this global success story at risk. We must stand united to ensure our collective voice is heard loud and clear.
“There is scant scientific justification for the proposed HPMAs, and an outright ban on responsible sea activities is not the solution. The sustainable growth of our salmon farms and other sectors is vital for the well-being of our coastal communities, the overall economy, and the vision of the Scottish Government.
“These proposals present a significant threat to our rural way of life, and opposition is growing both inside and outside of Holyrood. That’s why we have joined forces with other seafood organisations to launch this petition, urging ministers to adopt an evidence-based approach that protects both the environment and the livelihoods of hardworking Scots.
'Evidence, science, and facts'
“We encourage everyone to sign the petition and show their support for sustainable and fair policies that benefit our marine environment and coastal communities.
“The Scottish Government must base its decisions on evidence, science, and facts, rather than pandering to political pressures and appeasing campaign groups funded to undermine our sector.”
Those wishing to sign the petition can do so when it becomes available on the Scottish Parliament’s website.