NAFC welcomes visit from cabinet secretary

During the visit he had the chance to talk with some of the staff, which included a short presentation on the groundbreaking research work being undertaken by the Marine Science and Technology Department. He also had the opportunity to take to the helm of the Centre’s state-of-the-art ship bridge simulator as well as meet with local fisherman Victor Laurenson. 

Interim Director, Willie Shannon said: “We were very pleased to host this visit and show Richard Lochhead the fantastic work being done here. The NAFC Marine Centre has received international recognition for its applied research work and we are leading the way with our innovative marine management plan.” Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Rural Affairs, Richard Lochhead, said: "I was delighted to visit the NAFC Marine Centre and have the opportunity to see the world class facilities which are a huge asset to Shetland. "The work they are doing is really important to a wide range of marine users. Locally, the Centre has provided invaluable support to the Shetland Shellfish Management Organisation and its successful bid for Marine Stewardship Council Accreditation. More widely, the Shetland Marine Spatial Plan is one of the most advanced in Europe and has received international recognition. It will be an asset to support the development of Regional Marine Plans in Scotland."