I love British seafood but I am concerned about some fishing practices. I also feel very strongly about maintaining the quality of our inshore fishing grounds.
The public's appetite for cheap food is worrying. Many fresh produce suppliers will go to any lengths to procure the cheapest possible raw materials regardless of the consequences.
The fishing industry needs to work towards securing its future and it is the people that know and work in this business that are the best people to do this.
The launching of the Scottish Creelers and Divers (SCAD) group is exactly the kind of measures that need to be taken in order to protect the future and achieve sustainable fishing.
SCAD and similar groups will help to ensure people like me, who love Scotland's fine seafood, will be able to get hold of their produce and secure the livelihood of local workers.
Rick Stein
I would like to take this opportunity to lend you my personal support in this venture. I am proud to be able to use Scottish Hand Dived Scallops and live Langoustines from a place that I consider to be the best in the world for shellfish.
The quality of the water around Scotland's coasts is excellent. We need to do everything in our power to ensure that all marine harvesting is done using sustainable and environmentally compatible methods. It is also imperative that the livelihood of our fishermen is protected.
I wish you luck for the launch of this new and important association and I look forward to hearing more about your planned aims and objectives.
Stephane Delourme
Head Chef