AN investment of £65 million is to be made to modernise Britain’s fishing infrastructure, the UK Government has announced.
It said that the funding will strengthen the sector’s ability to catch more fish in the UK and take them to market faster, with a further £10 million going towards the creation of new jobs and training.
The £65 million infrastructure scheme will be made available for projects such as modernising ports and harbours, alongside increasing capacity and efficiency at processing and aqua culture facilities.
A ‘competition’ will be run to identify the best projects, with Westminster prioritising those that reduce carbon emissions to help increase the sustainability of the sector and contribute towards the UK’s commitment to reach net zero by 2050.
UK Government minister for Scotland, Malcolm Offord, said, “We want to guarantee our fishing industry has a bright future and today’s allocation of funding is a great step forward. From upgrading ports and improving processing facilities to boosting training and encouraging recruitment, it all brings a massive boost for the industry.
“Our engagement with Scotland’s fish and seafood sector is ongoing. We are listening to concerns and we are acting upon them for the benefit of business owners, workers and Scotland’s wider coastal communities.”
