Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson has welcomed a constructive meeting with Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon to discuss the potential reopening of the Solway cockle fishery.
The meeting, which took place in Newton Stewart on Monday 7th July, followed Mr Carson’s invitation for the Cabinet Secretary to visit the region and engage directly with local stakeholders. Representatives from South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), SeaScope Fisheries Research, a local fisherman, and an officer from the Scottish Government’s Marine Directorate were all in attendance to contribute their expertise and perspectives. This comes on the back of wider discussions with other stakeholders including NatureScot, RSPB and a Solway Firth Partnership.
Mr Carson, a long-standing advocate for the Scottish fishing sector, has consistently championed the case for a science-led, environmentally responsible reopening of the fishery. He believes such a move could deliver a significant economic boost to the region, potentially worth millions of pounds.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr Carson said:
“I was pleased to welcome the Cabinet Secretary to Galloway and West Dumfries and to facilitate direct engagement with those who understand the local marine environment and the economic potential of a reopened cockle fishery.
“This was a positive and constructive discussion, and I am encouraged by the willingness shown to listen to the science and the voices of those who live and work in the area.
“The Solway has a proud fishing heritage, and with the right safeguards in place, I firmly believe we can restore a sustainable cockle fishery that benefits both our communities and our environment.”
" We now wait on the Cabinet Secretary clearly setting out the process and timescales for allowing further work to proceed"
Mr Carson also highlighted that a science-led trial involving commercial vessels is something he and local stakeholders would like the Cabinet Secretary and her Marine Directorate officers to seriously consider as a next step. Such a trial would provide valuable data to inform future decisions and ensure any reopening is grounded in robust evidence.
He reiterated his commitment to working with all stakeholders to ensure that any future reopening is underpinned by long-term sustainability and local benefit.
