Draft proposals for requirements for static gear deployed within 12 nautical miles of Scottish baselines

Introduction

In December 2015, the Cabinet Secretary announced recommendations on dealing with gear conflict ( http://www.gov.scot/Publications/2015/12/4724). These included looking at good practice and possible legislative changes to the marking of static gear inside 12 nautical miles.

Over the past few months, Marine Scotland has held discussions with three industry working groups, formed specifically to consider options on this topic - one east coast, one west and one for the Western Isles, Orkney & Shetland.

The outcome of these discussions is a set of draft proposals which is set out in this consultation document. Although the majority of the organisations, associations and individuals who attended the group meetings did support the proposals some parties did express concerns.

This consultation therefore gives all fishermen the opportunity to consider and comment on them.