Wishart questions First Minister on equitable fishing funding

Scottish Liberal Democrat and Shetland MSP Beatrice Wishart has raised a First Minister’s question on the equitable funding for the fishing sector.

The UK Government provides funding to the UK nations in the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund. Scotland will receive 8% of the fund with the Scottish Government then dividing the money received.

Speaking in the Scottish Parliament Ms Wishart asked:

“Nine percent of the value of fish landed in the UK comes through Shetland ports.

“What percentage of the Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund can Shetland expect to receive via the Scottish Government?”

After the exchange Ms Wishart commented:

“Shetland’s contribution to the fishing sector and the UK economy is huge with nine percent of the value of fish landed in the isles.

“While there needs to be a redress of the overall division of the pie at UK level, the Scottish Government should commit to an equitable division of funding.

“A healthy fishing sector is crucial to our local economy helping support businesses up and down the supply chain.”

You can see the full FMQ exchange here.