Scotland’s First Minister, John Swinney MSP, was given an insight into Lerwick Harbour on Monday, 7 October, on his first visit to Shetland since his appointment.
He met with Port Authority Deputy Chair, Colin Nicholson, Chief Executive, Captain Calum Grains and Harbourmaster, Alexander Simpson, before seeing the port from onboard the harbour vessel, Knab. He also visited the port’s fishmarket, meeting industry representatives.
There was first-hand proof for Mr Swinney of Lerwick’s important contribution to Shetland’s economy, to view the industries supported and the port’s most recent developments of high-capacity shore power at Mair’s Pier, land reclamation at Arlanda for the pelagic sector and a new decommissioning facility at Greenhead Base.
Captain Grains said: “We are pleased to have welcomed the First Minister and his announcement of £3.2 million in support for Shetland’s fishing and aquaculture sectors.
“The visit gave us the important opportunity to remind him, and therefore the Scottish Government, of the harbour’s key roles in serving various industry sectors and the issues faced by our island community.
“The briefing highlighted our vision for the future and commitment to sustaining and developing the port, including our plans for an Ultra-Deep-Water Quay – which has Government financial support – for both the offshore sector and our growing involvement with renewable energy projects onshore and offshore.
“Discussions were positive, and we look forward to building our relationship with the First Minister.”
Mr Swinney’s Shetland programme included attending a meeting of the Convention of the Highlands and Islands.
