Commercial fishery for razor clams using electric current gear consultation: strategic environmental assessment screening
A screening determination report of the environmental effects associated with the outcomes expected from the planned consultation on a commercial fishery for razor clams in Scotland.
9. Description of the Plan
The consultation will seek views on three main potential outcomes, with various points of detail contained under each. These are:
Outcome 1: Ministers conclude following consultation feedback that the evidence does not support a commercial fishery and does not support continuing scientific investigation. The trial comes to an end, and commercial fishing for razor clams resumes its status as prohibited in the circumstances set out in SSI 2017/419.
Outcome 2: Ministers conclude that the evidence does not support a commercial fishery at this time, but there is reason to continue the scientific trial. The existing arrangements on terms and conditions, management and participating membership are retained and further fishing activity is authorised in furtherance of new scientific goals.
Outcome 3: Ministers conclude that the evidence does support a commercial fishery. The trial is brought to a conclusion, and legislation made that amends the current legal framework to make the catching, landing and selling of razor clams legal outside the current constraints of scientific investigation.
The consultation will allow for respondents to express views on alternatives to these options, such as a hybrid arrangement where there is some commercial fishing and also some continuing trial fishing, or a change in the areas in which Ministers consider authorising fishing, or legalising commercial fishing but not using electric current.