Fishing industry leaders are meeting the UK immigration minister over crew shortage stemming from tougher rules preventing skippers taking on migrant workers.
Over six Western Isles trawlers were forced to tie up in the summer after finding it impossible to source personnel
Younger people in the islands are no longer attracted to the work and the local fishing industry is forced to look abroad for skilled crews.
But UK Immigration often present difficulties in recruiting skilled workers.
In an earlier meeting with MP Angus MacNeil, immigration minister Robert Goodwill agreed to meet with the industry before the end of the year.
Mr MacNeil said: “I am pleased that the immigration minister has kept to his word and will meet with fishing industry leaders which will include representatives from the Western Isles.
“The west coast is in need of fishing crews and the UK Government rather than blocking the economy, must help it in line with the wishes of Scotland, the islands and fishing communities.
“This is a huge test of understanding for the UK Government as everybody can see the sense in this.
“The fishing industry is suffering because of lack of crew.
“This meeting will allow for the fishing industry to make a direct plea to the immigration minister and I hope that a solution can be found.
Immigration rules creating fishing crew shortages
13 December 2016