Warning of job losses if fishing gear ban is imposed in the Sound of Barra

The introduction of a ban on the use of all sea-bottom touching fishing gear in the Sound of Barra could have a devastating impact on local jobs during a time of “local and global economic crisis”.
By Peter Urpeth, Local Democracy Reporter
Published 22nd Sep 2020, 08:40 BST
The report warns of potential job losses at Kallin Shellfish.The report warns of potential job losses at Kallin Shellfish.
The report warns of potential job losses at Kallin Shellfish.

A report set to be considered by councillors in the Western Isles this week states that it could lead to the closure of Kallin Shellfish in Grimsay.

The proposed prohibition on use of the fishing gear in the area comes as part of Marine Scotland’s drive to improve the protection of Priority Marine Features in Scotland’s waters outside of existing Marine Protected Areas.

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The report, going before the Comhairle’s Sustainable Development Committee this week, calls for urgent discussions with Scottish Government Ministers to oppose the implementation of the proposal and to identify opportunities agreed in the Comhairle’s Economic Recovery Strategy for “innovation around environmental designations to allow community control” and “a more appropriate” balance between environmental and economic/community development considerations. 

The report states that the measures could result in the loss of local fishing jobs and 30 posts on shore with the closure of the Kallin Shellfish processing site if implemented.

Related topics:Scotland