Ayr's MSP has encouraged the community to get involved in a recently launched Scottish Government fisheries consultation.

SNP MSP Siobhian Brown has welcomed plans from the Scottish Government that will attempt to boost the fishing industry in Ayr and Troon and has encouraged local stakeholders to engage with the consultation.

The consultation on how to collaboratively improve inshore fisheries data, which was launched on August 14, includes proposals to introduce electronic tracking and monitoring technology for small fishing vessels, which will help to increase consumer confidence in Scottish seafood.

It follows two recent consultations: one on Remote Electric Monitoring (REM) on board pelagic and scallop vessels, and the other on Scotland’s Future Catching Policy. These collaborative consultations, and the package of measures they will introduce, represent Scotland’s future as a world-class sustainable fishing nation.

Commenting SNP MSP for Ayr, Siobhian Brown, said: “Scotland's seas are a rich and diverse natural asset, intrinsically linked to our local communities – and with that comes great responsibility.

“Our SNP Scottish Government is listening to the fishing communities in Ayr and Troon, as these recent consultations clearly show.

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"We can demonstrate how sustainably and responsibly sea fisheries are managed in Scotland, with a strong partnership between government, industry, and community.

"That will ensure our blue economy remains world-class, thriving sustainably and benefitting everybody.

“We all know how important the fishing industry is – in Ayrshire but across Scotland. This is a chance to recognise and shape the future of our local fishing sector, which is so vital to our environment, our culture, and our economy.

“I have taken time to engage with local fishing businesses in our community, including Spes Bona Superior Seafood based in Troon.

"Fishermen have such difficult jobs, so it is right the Scottish Government is supporting them.

“I encourage those interested in the inshore sector to contribute to the latest consultation.”

The Scottish Fishermen's Federation has been contacted for comment.

To view the consultation, click here.