WIREDGOV

Summit to chart route towards thriving marine ecosystem.

A summit on the future management of the Clyde will be held later this year, Fisheries Secretary Richard Lochhead has announced.

The event this spring will bring together representatives of the fishing industry, environmental groups, tourism and leisure organisations and others with a stake in how the Firth of Clyde is managed.

It is part of the Clyde 2020 programme to explore ways to support regeneration of marine biodiversity in the Clyde Basin.

Mr Lochhead said:

“The Clyde is one of our most important and celebrated waterways, an area of natural beauty that is intrinsic to Scotland’s identity and heritage. However its industrial past has taken its toll on the marine environment and now is the time to take action to regenerate the Clyde ecosystem.

“My vision for the Clyde Basin is for a healthy and thriving marine ecosystem that supports sustainable fishing, tourism and leisure while offering protection to the most fragile natural habitats.

“I am keen to harness the expertise and enthusiasm of organisations and individuals with an interest in managing the Clyde to define how we achieve that vision. A Clyde 2020 summit will be held this spring to develop that vision and chart the way forward for the development of an action plan to ensure this unique sea area can have a great future.”

Notes to editors

The Clyde 2020 summit will be held in spring 2014, with more details announced in due course.

The recent consultation on Scotland’s first national marine plan and the associated proposals on Marine Protected Areas provide a new framework for managing and improving the marine environment in the Clyde.

Clyde 2020 will involve research and practical measures to improve the Clyde marine ecosystem. This will be carried out in partnership with a wide range of stakeholders, and will explore ways to improve fisheries management and support regeneration of marine biodiversity in the Clyde Basin.