North politicians respond to halted Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMA) plans
North politicians, MP Jamie Stone and MSP Maree Todd have responded to the Scottish Government’s decision to drop their controversial plan of introducing Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs).
Liberal Democrat MP Jamie Stone said: “It seems to me highly ironic that only a few weeks ago the SNP in Westminster tried to shout me down when I raised my constituent's concerns about this now failed legislation.
"The Scottish Government's U–turn on this is a testament to the power and voice of rural and remote communities who were united in their opposition. They were incensed by the way the SNP and Greens were determined to impose rigid and damaging policies and failed to listen from the outset.
“There will be a sigh of relief that the Government has finally accepted that it got this badly wrong. Communities will need assurances that future policy doesn’t make the same mistakes, is led by scientific evidence, meaningful engagement and a proper understanding of all the factors that go into making our communities and fisheries sustainable.”
SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross, Maree Todd said: "I welcome the update today from the Cabinet Secretary for Net Zero and Just Transition on Highly Protected Marine Areas (HPMAs).
“As confirmed by the Cabinet Secretary in a statement this afternoon, plans to implement HPMAs across 10 per cent of Scotland’s seas by 2026 will not progress. The Scottish Government will now work to revise its proposal and bring forward a new pathway and timetable.
“I know that the issue of HPMAs has evoked strong feeling among many of the coastal communities in my constituency. It’s clear that we must identify a sustainable solution that protects our seas, but we must also protect the livelihoods of those who depend on them.
“The announcement from the Cabinet Secretary today demonstrates that the Scottish Government is listening to the many legitimate concerns from Scotland’s coastal and island communities. I will continue to ensure that the voices of my constituents are heard and represented in the ongoing discussions surrounding marine protection.”
