The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority, the independent regulator responsible for the enforcement of the State’s sea-fisheries regulations, has been aware of the presence of the EU-registered Lithuanian flagged fishing vessel Margiris, since its entry to IRL waters. In keeping with standard practice for all vessels, it is being continuously monitored by the Naval Service.
The vessel is operating within the Irish exclusive economic zone (EEZ). Under the Common Fisheries Policy any EU vessel can fish in any region’s EU waters where they have quota. This vessel has a quota entitling it to fish for Scad (Horse Mackerel) within EU waters and is authorised to conduct fishing activity in this area. As with all vessels it is required to record its catches and set them against quota in compliance with EU sea-fisheries legislation. The Margiris and all vessels operating in Irish waters are monitored continuously by the Naval Service through the Fisheries Monitoring Centre at the Naval Base, Haulbowline, using satellite Vessel Monitoring, Automatic Identification System (AIS) and ERS (Electronic Reporting Systems).
The SFPA is committed to ensuring that EU quotas are fairly and sustainably managed continuously. This year, with the support of the Naval Service, we have prioritized the implementation of the new Landing Obligation by all vessels operating within the Irish EEZ.
-ENDS-
Further information:
Eleanor Buckley, Communications Manager, Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority
Tel: 023 885 93 46/ 087 920 3658 or email eleanor.buckley@sfpa.ie.
Ger McCarthy, Weber Shandwick,
Tel: 01 679 8600/ 086 233 3590 or email: GMcCarthy2@webershandwick.com