Agreement on the distribution of Northeast Atlantic mackerel stocks extended, parties express differing views

This new quadrilateral agreement, signed by the United Kingdom, Norway, the Faroe Islands, and Iceland, aims to further reduce fishing pressure by 9% based on the progress made in the trilateral agreement between the UK, Norway, and the Faroe Islands. Richard Williamson, the deputy captain of the scientific research vessel LK62 and the president of the Scottish Pelagic Fishermen's Association (SPFA), welcomed the agreement and pointed out that after nearly four years of negotiations, all parties should now work together to ensure the long-term viability of mackerel stocks. Especially the European Union, which needs to earnestly fulfill its responsibilities like the other parties. The Shetland Fishermen's Association, which represents one-third of Scotland's pelagic fleet, stated that the UK "has made progress in pushing for quota distribution but has given up a considerable portion of its share in the mackerel fishery within its own exclusive economic zone." Its warning stated, "We all hope to reach a six-party agreement that includes the EU and Greenland, but at no cost to further sacrifice our own interests. We have already paid a heavy price, not only in the reduction of quota shares but also in the stress caused by the highly concentrated fishing operations in Scottish waters."