A Kirkcudbright scallop boat skipper has spoken of his relief after the Scottish Government extended its Covid-19 aid package.
The cash will help Steven Girgan pay significant overheads from having dredger Susan Bird lying idle in port.
Mr Girgan, pictured, told the News his business “was haemorraging money” through not being able to put to sea.
But now fisheries secretary Fergus Ewing has announced £3.5 million cash for larger boats, including the Susan Bird.
Previously the support scheme covered only vessels of 12 metres and under – mainly crab and lobster creelers.
Mr Girgan said: “It is certainly helpful and very welcome. It’s £21,000 which will cover us. It will keep us afloat for the next three months.
“The money will cover the basic running costs for lying at the harbour.
“That includes insurance, the rental of navigation equipment, vehicles, harbour dues and other fixed costs.”
The Scottish Government cash brings the total made available to the seafood industry to £22.5 million.
The sector has been effectively scuppered by the shutdown in markets in Scotland and Europe.
Mr Ewing, who urged people to buy Scottish seafood, said: “This latest funding benefits more than 220 Scottish vessels over 12 metres.”
