Moray MP Douglas Ross has raised concerns that fishing fleets in the region could be seen as “second-class” in order to make way for increased traffic at local harbours.
Douglas made the remarks during an evidence session on fishing grounds in Scotland at the Scottish Affairs Committee earlier this week.
The committee heard from Elspeth McDonald of the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, Elaine Whyte of the Communities Inshore Fisheries Alliance and Mike Cohen of the National Federation of Fishermen’s Organisations.
Douglas cited the organisation’s report into fishing grounds which included looking at the Moray Firth. He went on to highlight ports including Buckie, Nigg, Invergordon, Wick and Fraserburgh and how they plan to cope with increased movement at their harbours.
He put it to the witnesses that there is a real risk that increased traffic as a result of more offshore developments could see fishing fleets losing out.
Both Elspeth McDonald and Elaine Whyte shared Douglas’ opinion describing it as a “significant issue” and one that’s “really difficult” for the industry.
Moray MP Douglas Ross said: “While we all want to see a boost to our renewable output and hit our ambitious net zero targets, we cannot forget about our fishing industry in doing so.
“The Moray Firth is one area where this is absolutely crucial and why I wanted to raise it at this committee. There is a real risk with the green light being given to more developments that will mean increased traffic in our ports, that fishing fleets are going to be designated as “second-class” and potentially forgotten about.
“That cannot be allowed to happen and there is clear concern among the industry that may very well be the case.
“It is important that the industry is allowed to quantify the effects of allowing more traffic in our local harbours. The fishing industry supports many livelihoods across Moray and the wider Highlands and Islands and we cannot deprioritise their interests.
“The stark evidence given by those at the heart of the industry should serve as a reminder to all of us that there is the right balance to be struck to ensure that we do achieve net zero targets, but not to the detriment of fishermen and the fishing industry in Moray.
“I will continue to work closely with the industry and ensure that when developments are brought forward, that their interests are fully taken into account.”