The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) has welcomed a visit by newly appointed UK fisheries minister Stephen Morgan MP to Peterhead, describing it as a valuable chance for those on the front line of Scotland’s fishing industry to be heard.
Hosted by the SFF, Mr Morgan’s visit began at Peterhead Fish Market, where he observed the morning sales and spoke with traders at the UK’s largest white fish port. He then boarded the pelagic vessel Artemis, getting a closer look at how Scotland’s wild-caught fish makes the journey from sea to plate.
The programme was designed to highlight the scale, skill and economic significance of Scotland’s fishing sector – from crews at sea to processors, traders, transport firms and the wider supply chains that underpin coastal communities across the country.
SFF chief executive Elspeth Macdonald said it was important for ministers to understand both the industry’s community impact and its role in producing sustainable, nutritious food.
“It was a pleasure to welcome the new UK fisheries minister to the north-east to see for himself the importance of the industry to our coastal communities,” she said.
“From the skill of those working at sea to the communities and supply chains behind every catch, the visit was a valuable opportunity to showcase the role of Scottish fishing in producing natural, renewable, low-carbon and high-protein food.
“It is important that ministers have the opportunity to hear directly from those working in the industry and witness the professionalism, innovation and investment that characterise modern Scottish fishing. We look forward to continuing our constructive engagement with the minister on the issues that matter most to the sector.”
Reflecting on the visit, Mr Morgan stressed the pride and dedication he had seen across the north-east’s fishing communities.
“Getting out and about and meeting those working at the heart of Scotland’s fishing industry today has been fantastic,” he said.
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“It is a rare but invaluable chance to meet traders at Peterhead’s fish market and join the crew onboard a pelagic vessel.
“It’s clear just how many people and businesses this sector supports across the north-east of Scotland, and how much pride there is in the work they do.
“I know that I’ll be drawing on today’s conversations to help Scotland’s fishing sector continue to thrive.”
