The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) has hailed a visit by newly appointed UK fisheries minister Stephen Morgan MP to Peterhead, describing it as an important opportunity for frontline voices in Scotland’s fishing industry to be heard.
Hosted by the SFF, the minister’s north-east visit began at Peterhead Fish Market, where he took in the early-morning sales and met traders working at the heart of the UK’s largest white fish port. He then stepped aboard the pelagic vessel Artemis, gaining a first-hand view of the journey Scotland’s wild-caught fish takes from sea to plate.
The visit was designed to showcase both the scale and the sophistication of Scotland’s modern fishing sector – from crews at sea to processors, traders, transport operators and the wider supply chains that sustain coastal communities across the country.
SFF chief executive Elspeth Macdonald said the federation was keen to underline the economic importance of the industry, as well as 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 highlighted the pride and commitment evident 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.”
