From L to R: John Anderson, Michelle Logan, Christopher Mair, Anne-Margaret Stewart and Gordon Morrison

THE Seafish fleet economic survey gets under way this week with a team of researchers travelling the length and breadth of the country in their quest to interview as many fishermen as possible.

The Seafish fleet economic survey is the only comprehensive survey of the financial performance of the UK fishing industry and, given the current fuel crisis, it is vitally important to have an up-to-date picture of the economics of the fleet.

This was echoed by Barrie Deas, chief executive of the National Federation of Fishermen's Organisations, who said: "Against the background of crippling fuel costs, it is more important than ever to have an accurate picture of the industry's economics if we are to influence Government policy here or in Brussels."

Last year, over 700 fishermen were interviewed and 500 sets of financial accounts received, but the team still want to improve coverage this time round.

Gordon Morrison, researcher for the second year running said: "I'm really happy to get the chance to repeat my experiences of last year, getting to meet and talk to some of the most interesting people in the country.

"Everyone we met in Pittenweem last week was extremely helpful and friendly, but understandably, there was a lot of concern about the financial outlook for this year."

The team of four researchers will be meeting fishermen over the next ten weeks and have the full support of industry leaders.

Mike Park, executive chairman of the Scottish White Fish Producers Association said: "The current emphasis on efficiencies and operating costs, and the result of current escalating fuel prices, magnifies the importance of having detailed economic information at hand; both knowledge and understanding are key requisites in creating and implementing a suitable response to the problem.

"The document produced annually by Seafish, listing the sectoral cost and earnings of the fleet, is the most complete of any available data and I eagerly suggest that we continue to support this initiative."

This sentiment was endorsed by Jim Portus, chief executive officer of the South Western Fish Producer's Organisation who commented: "If there is one survey you co-operate with in 2008, please make it the Seafish economics fleet survey.

"In the Channel area, more than 60% of all fish is taken with towed gear making fuel costs one of the most important considerations determining the success or failure of the fishing business.

"It is vital to have complete and accurate knowledge of the current situation if we are to influence government policy."

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