Sturgeon to address fishing industry summit on Brexit

The First Minister of Scotland and leader of the Scottish National Party will talk to representatives from the fishing sector to discuss the impact of Brexit.

Nicola Sturgeon will listen to those from the fishing, processing and aquaculture industry as well as environmentalists, port authorities and people from the food and drink sector as reported in the Scotsman.

Uncertainties around Brexit after next year’s leave date will be on the agenda.

Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing will also attend the meeting. He said: “The Scottish seafood sector has gone from strength to strength in recent years and is an important part of our economy – but the UK Government’s lack of clarity on how the industry will be affected by Brexit is putting the livelihoods of workers and communities at risk. With seafood exports to the EU worth £725 million last year, the industry needs an assurance that it can continue to easily access EU markets.

Read more: Price of salmon has soared for Scots since Brexit

“Increased trade barriers and customs delays – as well as question marks over our ability to attract and retain migrant workers and our continued access to EU funding – could all harm the entire seafood chain if it is not addressed sensibly through the UK Government’s Brexit negotiations.

“The Scottish Government’s firm view is that the least damaging Brexit would involve continued membership of the single market and customs union. However, in the absence of any realistic UK Government position, this summit is an opportunity to hear the seafood sector’s concerns so we can push for more clarity – this will also help us shape our national discussions around the future of fisheries management in Scotland.”

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