The Scottish National Party (SNP) candidate Hannah Mary Goodlad has successfully invited First Minister John Swinney to Shetland, marking his second visit since her announcement to run for the position of Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP). The two will hold a public meeting at Mareel on February 23, 2024, at 19:00, which will be chaired by local broadcaster Jane Moncrieff. Tickets for this free event will be available through the Mareel box office.
Goodlad has pledged to prioritize the fishing industry if elected in the upcoming May elections. She emphasized her deep-rooted connection to the sector, saying, “With my family background, I grew up understanding just how important fishing is to Shetland. Almost every teatime, fishing or fish was mentioned around our table.” She has engaged with local fishermen and met with the Shetland Fishermen’s Association on four occasions to address pressing issues within the industry.
One significant concern she raised is related to a recent decision by the Scottish Government, which mandates that the percentage of mackerel that must be landed in Scotland will increase from 50% to 70%. Goodlad has expressed her opposition to this change in discussions with Mairi Gougeon, the Scottish fisheries minister. She also highlighted the ongoing issue of enforcement regarding foreign vessels transhipping their catch from Shetland, stating, “There is only so much I can manage to do as a candidate. If the fishing industry is prepared to put their trust in me at the elections, I will be able to do so much more with a seat at the table where all the decisions are made.”
In addition to fishing, the ferry service connecting the Northern Isles remains a critical issue. Emma Macdonald, the Liberal Democrat candidate, responded to recent consultation results from Transport Scotland that emphasize local concerns about capacity, safety, and pricing. Macdonald stated, “This consultation confirms what we have been hearing for many years that our ferry service is a lifeline service.” She criticized the current system, which forces residents to book weeks in advance to transport vehicles, undermining the everyday life of islanders.
Macdonald called for a reevaluation of ferry services to ensure they are designed with islanders in mind. She argued for restoring affordable cabin options and improving safety and comfort for passengers. “Ferries are the backbone of our connection to the rest of Scotland – socially, economically, and culturally,” she remarked.
On another front, John Erskine, the Labour candidate, expressed his support for Prime Minister Keir Starmer amidst growing calls for his resignation. Erskine’s backing comes even as Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar has taken a bold stance, urging Starmer to step down. The political landscape in Shetland is further complicated by the presence of other candidates, including Alex Armitage from the Greens and Brian Nugent representing Sovereignty.
As the campaign progresses, the focus remains on the pressing issues of the fishing industry and the vital ferry service, both of which significantly impact the daily lives of Shetland residents. The upcoming public meeting with Swinney offers an opportunity for constituents to engage directly with key political figures and voice their concerns as the elections approach.
