EU Fisheries Fund Saves Almost 600 Scottish Jobs

Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead and Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham will be at the world's largest seafood show in Brussels tomorrow to fly the flag for Scottish produce.

And while there they will announce that 39 companies are to share £2.9 million from the European Fisheries Fund (EFF).

As well as safeguarding 597 jobs the investment will also create a further 55.

The successful projects are spread across the fishing, processing and aquaculture sectors, which together are worth over £1 billion to the Scottish economy.

Ahead of the Brussels visit, Ms Cunningham said: "Scotland is rightly renowned around the world for the quality of its fish and shellfish. The fishing, processing and aquaculture sectors support thousands of jobs directly and indirectly, often in rural and coastal communities, and make a huge contribution to our economy. In these difficult times it is vital we ensure they have a sustainable and profitable future.

"This money will enable companies to invest in new technology and markets and allowing them to plan for the future. The Scottish Government remains determined to do all it can maximise jobs, invest in business and ensure our economy is well-positioned for recovery."

Among the recipients of the EFF money is Scottish Quality Salmon (SQS) which is to receive £203,000 to further promote Label Rouge Scottish Salmon.

In 1992 Scottish salmon became the first non-French food to achieve Label Rouge status, the French Government's top quality award.

As well as being used to target additional consumers, wholesalers, retailers and restaurants in France, the money will be used to break into new markets in other European countries.

Scott Landsburgh, Chief Executive of SQS, said: "The grant is a welcome boost towards promoting Label Rouge Scottish Salmon as a premium Scottish food in the European market. Demand for high quality farmed salmon is high and continues to grow despite the economic climate. We are delighted to be able to continue developing this very important export market and contributing to the Scottish economy."

Ministers will also use their attendance at this year's European Seafood Exposition to announce a new push to get more consumers in Scotland eating fish, highlighting its value as well as the many health benefits.

By encouraging more people to eat their recommended weekly intake of fish, the Scottish Government aims to provide a further boost to the fishing industry.

Mr Lochhead said:

"Scottish fish is harvested sustainably from one of the most spectacular marine environments anywhere in the world and by eating just two or more portions of fish a week consumers are also getting a major health boost. With over 60 species caught off Scotland's coast people are spoilt for choice and, what's more, fish offers real value for money."

The European Seafood Exposition, which takes place in Brussels this week, is the world's largest seafood show, bringing together seafood buyers and sellers from throughout the world. This year over 1,600 importers, distributors, processors, retailers and food service operators from around 80 different countries will be in attendance, including 20 Scottish companies on the Scottish pavilion.

Last year's event created £2.83 million of new business for Scottish exhibitors with a further £14.25 million of potential business identified.