Local MSP invites Cabinet Secretary to Ullapool for consultation on Highland Protected Marine Areas
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Ross MSP Maree Todd has invited the Cabinet Secretary for environment, Màiri McAllan, to Ullapool to meet with local stakeholders to consult on proposals for Highland Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs).
The Scottish Government's proposal would see at least 10 per cent of Scotland’s seas designated as HPMAs by 2026.
These sites would aim to provide high levels of protection by placing strict limits on some human activities, such as fishing and aquaculture, while allowing non–damaging recreational activities to take place at managed levels.
The proposals have sparked a storm of protest in some coastal communities and even inspired a protest song by traditional music act, Skipinnish.
The Scottish Government undertook a public consultation on its proposals for HPMAs from December 12 to April 17. The Cabinet Secretary, Màiri McAllan has committed to ongoing engagement and to visiting coastal and island communities to hear directly from those affected.
Maree Todd MSP said: “With marine species in decline, we cannot shy away from the fact that intervention is required to protect our marine environment. The coastal communities I represent recognise the need to protect and enhance our seas, but they also depend on the right action being taken to sustain livelihoods and the local economy.
"It’s important that these communities have the opportunity to speak directly with government representatives to provide local insight and knowledge to help shape government policy.
“I have therefore invited the Cabinet Secretary, Màiri McAllan to Ullapool – a community built on fisheries and marine activity – to hear from local stakeholders. I know that the Cabinet Secretary is strongly committed to close and meaningful collaboration with our coastal and island communities on this issue. I look forward to receiving her response to my invitation.”
