News In Focus
5 February 2010
Parliament backs bill to protect Scottish seas
The Marine Bill, legislation designed to protect Scotland's marine wildlife while allowing development of the offshore renewable industry, has been passed.
Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead described the bill as a "momentous" day for Scotland's marine environment. The bill was passed unanimously by MSPs.
Mr Lochhead said: "Scotland's history is closely connected to the sea and our spectacular resource-rich waters have helped shape our nation.
"Our first Marine Bill marks the beginning of a new era for our seas."
The main measures in the bill include:
- A National Marine Plan to give greater clarity to decision making in the marine environment and encourage investment
- A simpler licensing system to cut bureaucracy and introduce efficiencies to encourage economic investment and growth
- New powers to select and manage Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to enhance marine biodiversity and preserve historic assets
- Much improved protection for seals, including a comprehensive licence system and tougher penalties for those who harm seals
- New responsibilities for safeguarding the health of all Scottish waters out to 200 nautical miles (nm) – in addition to responsibility for marine planning out to 200 nm
To read the Marine (Scotland) Bill in full, click here