Written Question · S7W-04380 · Session 7
Further to the answer to question S7W-03607 by Jim Fairlie on 6 October 2026, whether it plans to undertake an assessment to quantify the c…
The question
To ask the Scottish Government, further to the answer to question S7W-03607 by Jim Fairlie on 6 October 2026, whether it plans to undertake an assessment to quantify the contribution of the proposed fisheries management measures for inshore Marine Protected Areas and Priority Marine Features to achieving Good Environmental Status for seafloor integrity, including any remaining shortfall following implementation, and, if so, when that assessment will commence and be completed.
The answer
In order to assess the effectiveness of the MPA and PMF management measures, Scottish Government, as part of it’s monitoring programme, will undertake surveys in Marine Protected Areas and proposed Priority Marine Feature management areas. Findings will be analysed and contribute to the status of the sites protected feature(s).In relation to Good Environmental Status for seafloor integrity, the Scottish Government is carefully considering the ESS report published on 23 June 2026, Protecting Scotland's seafloor: an assessment of Scottish Ministers' implementation of the Marine Strategy Regulations 2010 and will work constructively with ESS to seek to agree an appropriate action plan within the timescale suggested in the report.The Scottish Government's position on the report's findings and recommendations will be set out through that engagement and in its formal response.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S7W-04380 by reference.