An overwhelming majority of Scots believe fishing fleets should be safeguarded as seas become more crowded with the emergence of offshore wind and renewables, according to a new survey.
The poll of 1000 adults carried out for the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) underscores strong public support for protecting the industry as it faces pressures from new marine users, SFF chief executive Elspeth Macdonald said.
‘This survey proves conclusively that the people of Scotland firmly believe fishing should continue to be a priority as we balance the needs of different marine industries. With our seas becoming busier spaces, we call on the Scottish government to put the needs of our fishing sector at the heart of marine policy. Many of our coastal communities depend on fishing.’
The research was compiled on behalf of the association by Opinion Matters, and the SFF states that this shows a level of support for the sector that is not always reflected in the public sphere.
This follows the scrapping of the Scottish Government’s highly controversial Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs) policy that would have led to a further loss of 10% of Scotland’s fishing grounds, which led to protests from communities across Scotland.
The poll results indicate that 19 in 20 Scots recognise fishing is vital for coastal communities, and 94.2% believe the industry is important to Scotland’s economy.
‘This survey leaves no doubt that the public stands firmly behind Scotland’s fishing industry. With so many challenges ahead, from the changing climate to the cost of living crisis, these results give us confidence that people in Scotland recognise fishing must be part of our nation’s future,’ Espeth Macdonald said.
‘As an industry there are always things that we can do better. But there is a lot for us to be loud and proud about in terms of producing quality, low-carbon and sustainable protein. The public recognises this and has made it clear that it wants fishing protected amid crowded seas. There is an understanding that losing our fleets would be a tragedy that leaves Scotland vulnerable and communities devastated.’
The full findings will be published in the coming weeks, as part of the federation’s upcoming Industry Trends and Attitudes report.