Ireland may face fine over illegal Scottish fishing

Ireland is likely to face a hefty fine by the European Union over unlawful fishing in Scottish waters.

This came after Scottish fisheries tipped off their counterparts over illegal fishing by Irish fishing vessels.
In addition to the fine, if the catch is deemed to have breached Irish quotas, the quotas may be reduced.

A Department for the Marine spokesperson said on Sunday, February 5th, that there was little the department could say other than their awareness of the problem. The spokesperson added that the department had informed the European Commission and that their investigation was continuing.

Gardai have also been investigating after what it thought to be a Eu500, 000 catch of mackerel was found at a Galway port.
The Government is facing anger in the fishing industry over reforms to the country's fisheries laws, which will see large fines for over-fishing.
Fishermen recently gathered in protest in the country's main ports and said the Fisheries Bill will not be accepted.
Fishing industry leaders fear that fishermen will face costly court actions, fines of up to Eu200, 000 and the confiscation of their fishing equipment.

Instead of that, they want administrative penalties, such as fishing bans or a penalty-points-style system to be used to monitor the industry.