Successful show debut

01 August 2008

COSALT Fraserburgh branch supervisor Carol MacDonald has urged the Scottish Government to take up the cause of the fishing industry.

She has asked Scottish Fisheries Minister Richard Lockhead to throw the industry - hit by a steep rise in running costs - a lifeline.

Carol, famous for her role as one the the Cod Crusaders who lobbied Gordon Brown and went to Brussels, is currently compiling a petition which will be presented to the UK Government shortly. It calls for a cut in duty on fuel and has over 15,000 signatures.

Cosalt has strong current and historical links with fishing and it is in the company's interests that the industry should thrive. 

Said Carol: "The fishing industry in general is really suffering due to the increased fuel and general running costs."

She represented the Fishermen's Association Ltd Community Section at a recent meeting with Mr Lockhead where she urged the ruling SNP to live up to its manifesto pledges on fishing.

Before the meeting she said: "The situation surrounding fuel costs both on and offshore needs to be addressed directly with the Treasury by representation from the Scottish Government.

"Alistair Darling holds the purse strings, so Scotland must seek, in the words of Oliver, ‘More please'.

"The Westminster Government is quick to take the oil revenues generated from Scotland so it is only right that we request some of that money back," she added.

This could be used to cushion the impact of rising fuel and other costs.

Issued on behalf of Cosalt Safety and Protection by Nigel Lowther Associates Ltd. Media inquiries should be referred to Sarah Avery on 01472 504288 or Nigel Lowther (0792 0102303).