The annual Brussels jamboree of setting EU-wide fishing quotas is approaching once again, but Scottish fishermen are feeling cautiously optimistic, says Bertie Armstrong, chief executive of the Scottish Fishermen's Federation It's been a reasonably profitable couple of years for Scotland's fishing fleet, creating a feeling of optimism. Quayside prices have been healthy and the news from the scientists is that many of the key fish stocks the sector depends on are in good health, too. Putting aside the eye-watering cost of fuel, prospects are looking good. The Scottish fleet is a major European player with the majority of EU quota in Scottish langoustine, haddock, mackerel and a significant stake in monkfish, herring, cod and some stocks not subject to quota such as scallops, lobster and brown crab. For the first time in six years the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea has not recommended total closure of the North Sea cod fishery. After years of gloomy stock data, cod is starting to recover. In response to the industry's severe recovery measures - the Scottish whitefish fleet dropped 65% in size between 2000 and 2004 - cod landings are low compared with the past. But the species' popularity with shoppers continues to have a big impact in terms of restrictions on the number of days boats can fish. As for the other main species, haddock is harvested in a sustainable way and within limits, and a catch reduction of 15% is expected for 2008. But if a credit-and-debit regulation is adopted, allowing lower catches at one point in the year to be balanced by higher ones at other times, this should help to maintain supply. Mackerel is in line for a 9% cut next year, although fishermen are reporting an abundance of fish in the grounds, which may manifest itself as a higher quota for 2009. For herring, despite the catch uptake being within limits, there has been poor adult stock recovery because of environmental factors. While the stock recovers, a catch reduction of about 30% is expected. Scottish langoustine stock is healthy and we expect last year's quota to be rolled over as no assessment was required this year. The Scottish fleet has taken the lead in innovation and development of technical measures for sustainable fishing practices. And with most key stocks at sustainable levels, we want to protect our achievements. Several of the main Scottish fisheries are being assessed for Marine Stewardship Council accreditation. For all these reasons we are optimistic about the results of the coming EU fisheries council and hope the market for Scottish seafood will continue to expand.

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