UNDERSIZE CRAYFISH SEIZED BY THE SFPA

Undersize Crayfish Seized by the SFPA

A number of undersize crayfish were returned to sea after they were seized by the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) in Kerry last week. The SFPA has launched its annual inshore fisheries patrol programme as part of conservation measures to help protect Ireland’s valuable shellfish and crustacean fisheries including crab, lobster, crayfish, and whelk.

In addition, Sea-Fisheries Protection Officers (SFPOs) of the SFPA have commenced patrolling smaller ports. As part of this campaign, a total of 39 undersize crayfish were detected today in Kerry – these were released by the SFPA and investigations are on-going.

The SFPA’s campaign will focus on unlicensed and unregistered fishing vessels along the south and west coasts. The SFPA will also monitor compliance by members of the public to ensure their fishing activities are within limits for lobster and crab fishing.

The SFPA is advising that anyone found to be non-compliant with sea-fisheries or seafood safety regulations can expect to face prosecution.

Regulations are in place for all commercial and casual/recreational fishers, regarding the minimum size that can be caught to ensure shellfish and crustacean species such as lobster and crab can reach maturity and reproduce to safeguard the future of stocks.

The SFPA’s inshore patrols will operate throughout the summer into autumn.

As in previous years, the SPFA will deploy its 7.5 Metre RIBs with the capacity to winch lift and inspect lobster pots and keeps (used for holding live crustaceans prior to sale) to facilitate detailed inspections.

The inshore monitoring programme also includes vehicle patrols to small local ports and landing places so Sea-Fisheries Protection Officers can identify and monitor unlicensed and unregistered vessels which may be deployed during the summer months.

These vessels will be targeted for inspection at sea during the subsequent patrols in that area.

Paschal Hayes, Executive Chairperson of the SFPA commented:

“The volume of such a find of undersize crayfish is both significant for the future viability of the fishery. The majority of inshore fishermen act responsibly and in conjunction with state agencies, including the SFPA, to ensure the protection of the species which have been in decline in recent years. Consumer trust in the quality, provenance and safety of Ireland’s seafood produce underpins the reputation and success of the sector on which many coastal economies rely.”

If you have any concerns regarding fisheries control, seafood fraud and/ or seafood safety please contact the SFPA through our Confidential Line channels. Call our Confidential Line on 1800 76 76 76. Send us an email to confidential@sfpa.ie. Alternatively, complete our Confidential Report form.

Photo © SFPA Undersize crayfish seized by the SFPA

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