Carson Raises Concerns of Scallop Industry With Rural Economy Secretary

Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson has raised the concerns of the local scallop industry directly with Scottish Government Rural Economy Cabinet Secretary Fergus Ewing.

TheLocal MSP has raised concerns over potential offshore windfarms close to Burrow Head, south of Kirkcudbright and south of the Mull of Galloway.

The sectoral marine plan has highlighted potential areas where windfarms could be situated and Mr Carson has been contacted by concerned local scallop fishermen who say any plans for windfarms in this area would be hugely damaging to their industry and the local economy.

Commenting Finlay Carson MSP said: “The scallop industry is so important to the economy of Dumfries and Galloway.

“I am extremely concerned to see potential plans for windfarm development that could seriously damage the local scallop industry.

“Any sort of windfarm at the Burrow Head would present a serious navigational hazard for boats in this area, and I hope that Fergus Ewing urgently looks into these concerns.

“Our fishermen need to be supported rather than having the threat of a windfarm development hanging over them.

“I will be continuing to raise concerns with the SNP Government to ensure that the fishermen receive the assurances they need regarding these plans.”