Skippers’ views wanted to paint picture for policy makers

Seafish researchers are calling on vessel owners and skippers in Shetland, Orkney, the Highlands and the Outer Hebrides to have their say on the state of the fishing industry in its 13th annual economic survey of the UK fleet.

This year’s survey is travelling across the country gathering data on fishing and vessel costs to provide a comprehensive overview of the financial and operational performance of the industry.

With the UK preparing to leave the European Union, the researchers hope that fishermen will provide accurate data to paint a clear picture of the performance of the industry for policy makers.

They will be visiting ports including those in Shetland between Monday and Thursday next week.

Last year was a mixed year for the fishing fleet, with operating profit seeing a four per cent decrease, but total fishing income rising by £38 million to reach £984 million.

Seafish economics project manager Steve Lawrence sand many skippers raised the uncertain political and trade landscape, the availability of fish, oil and fuel price and quota as some of their main concerns.

The 2018 survey was a chance for the industry to give up-to-date information on their successes and upcoming challenges, helping their voices be heard, Mr Lawrence said.

More in Friday’s Shetland Times.