Certain categories of large trawlers are prohibited from fishing within 12 miles of base lines. It is not realistic to ban all trawling activity in every area where crab pots or other static gear are deployed. The Department has consistently encouraged a non-confrontational approach to resolving problems and has actively promoted dialogue between both sides.
The Department introduced a mutually agreed code of practice for both local fishermen and trawlermen which is designed to minimise the risk to crab and lobster pots from trawling activities.
The adoption of the code of practice has widespread support and has been effective in substantially reducing the levels of lost or damaged gear. The Killybegs Fishermens Organisation and the North West Lobstermens Association were both involved in the negotiation of the code of practice and supported its introduction.
These arrangements offer the fishermen concerned scope for peaceful co-existence and acknowledges the rights of all sides to expect that their legitimate interests will be respected and their livelihoods protected. The situation will be kept under review and if there are particular incidents needing attention, they will be carefully investigated with a view to facilitating fair and equitable solutions.