Fishermen concerned over continuing HNP dispute

Simon Collins

The Shetland fishing industry is calling for a rapid resolution of the HNP dispute, after plans by Shetland Leasing and Property (Slap) to evict the engineering company from their premises on Commercial Road in Lerwick.

Shetland fishermen are said to be “increasingly concerned” over the future of HNP Engineering and the potential loss of crucial marine services in the isles.

In a statement released today the Shetland Fishermen’s Association called on both parties in the dispute to settle their differences.

Executive officer Simon Collins said: “At a time when our fishing fleet is expanding and modernising, the last thing we need is the loss of engineering capacity and ancillary services onshore.

“We can take no view on the argument between HNP and Slap, which is of course a matter for them. But we have a very strong view on what is needed to keep a vibrant and dynamic fleet here in Shetland, and losing marine engineers is not part of that picture.

“We urge both sides to come together in the best interests of Shetland plc [sic], and sooner rather than later.”