MP calls for temporary halt marine protected areas rules
22 October 2015
Plans for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) over Western Isles fishing grounds should be halted until new powers for the islands have been agreed says isles' MP, Angus MacNeil.
The Scottish Government proposes handing more control of their own affairs to the Comhairle.
This would be protected in law by an Islands Bill which is presently out to public consultation.
Angus MacNeil urged "caution on the draconian MPA plans as these will be economically damaging to islands and are an example of something better dealt with in the islands where their effects will be felt."
He stressed: "I think in light of the Island powers consultation, it would be sensible to delay the process of implementing the management plans for the MPAs until after any new powers for the islands are finalised.”
He has already written to Fisheries Minister Richard Lochhead MSP and Islands Minister Derek Mackay MSP to reiterate the concerns of the fishing industry on the current MPAs.
The MP also urged the Scottish Government to carry out an economic impact assessment on the proposals.
Despite this correspondence, Mr Macneil remains concerned that the alternative management options and compromises proposed by the industry are being dismissed.
He highlighted: “There remain significant disagreements between the fishing industry and Marine Scotland over the facts regarding current catch recordings and their value; the environmental condition of the sites in question; and also sustainable practices voluntarily implemented by the fishing industry over decades.
He added: “I remain very concerned about the possible economic impact of proposed management plans for the MPAs and I think the Scottish Government should take its time in coming to a final decision when so much is at stake.”