Christopher O'Sullivan
Question:14. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Defence the role of the Naval Service in fisheries protection; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24907/21]
View answerThursday, 13 May 2021
Questions (14)
Written answers
The Naval Service is the State's principal sea-going agency tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. While the main day to day role of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union, it also carries out a number of other non-fishery related tasks such as search and rescue, diving operations, drugs interdiction as well as many more.
In relation to its sea-fishery protection role, the Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006 established the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) as the competent Authority for securing efficient and effective enforcement of sea fisheries protection legislation and the sustainable exploitation of marine fish resources from the waters around Ireland within Ireland's EEZ.
A Service Level Agreement is in place which underpins the relationship between the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority and the Defence Organisation. This Agreement provides for the development of a Control Plan and for agreed reporting and training arrangements. The agreement also provides a forum for sharing information between parties and for dealing with fisheries' control and enforcement issues. Department officials, members of the Naval Service and the Air Corps, meet with officials of the SFPA at formal and informal meetings regularly.
During 2020, the Naval Service carried out 781 fishery patrol days. Up until 30 April 2021 the Naval Service had carried out 275 fishery patrol days. Notwithstanding some mechanical, staffing and Covid issues being experienced, the Naval Service continues to carry out the roles assigned by Government, including fishery protection and maritime security operations.
Questions Nos. 15 16 answered orally.
Question No. 17 answered with Question No. 7
Question No. 18 answered orally.