Given the importance of sandeel to the wider ecosystem and the subsequent benefit in aiding long-term sustainability and resilience of the marine environment, it remains an overarching Scottish Government position, which is reflected in Scotland’s Fisheries Management Strategy, not to support fishing for sandeel in our waters. For this reason, the UK, supported by the Scottish Government, has not allocated sandeel quota since 2021.
There are several measures in place for the protection of sandeel stocks, through the network of Marine Protected Areas.
Following the announcement by the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands in May, the Scottish Government now wishes to consult on proposals to close fishing for sandeel in all Scottish waters to further ensure the sustainability of the sandeel stock, as well as providing wider ecosystem benefits.
This consultation sets out the key issues that need to be considered in determining whether to close fishing for sandeel in all Scottish waters, subject to views received in response.
Read More…
https://consult.gov.scot/marine-scotland/consultation-on-proposals-to-close-fishing/
Last Updated on 4th November 2024