Petition against SACs

The group opposing two proposed marine Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) around Barra and Mingulay in the Western Isles has launched a petition against the designation which they say has received overwhelming support from local fishermen and others.

The two SACs will cover around 30,000 hectares of sea area. 

According to the group’s spokesman, Angus MacLeod, they are still waiting for clarification of a number of issues as "There are a lot of details tied in with the SACs and we want everyone to know what the implications of the SACs will be.  We have heard SNH and others say often enough that there will be no restrictions, but on the SNH website itself there are details of what you can and can’t do in an SAC.

He also claimed that there are even restrictions outwith the SAC area due to its proximity – for example not being allowed to take seaweed off the shore to use as fertilizer, lift shells and even banning people walking on the shore.

Although the group fears that the fishing and shell fishing industries will be adversely affected, the government has stated that none is envisaged.

The campaign has received support from the Mallaig and North-west Fishermen’s Association, the Western Isles Fishermen’s Association and the Scottish Fishermen’s Federation, the Scottish Crofting Foundation, as well as Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.

The group also wants a clear answer to who has the final say in designating the SACs.

A Scottish Government spokesman said: "We are still waiting for the final scientific advice from SNH as to whether or not these two sites should be designated. That advice is expected to come over the summer. 

Ministers will decide when they get that advice if they will then proceed to the consultation phase.  Ministers will also share that advice with stakeholders when it is received.  They will also share the advice they are given as to whether or not they should proceed to consultation.  It is up to ministers to decide to do nothing or to proceed with it. 

Category: Other Organisations