Fisherman's failure to record catch lands him in Cork court

A French fisherman’s failure to record details of all of the fishing he was carrying out off the coast of Ireland cost him a total of €42,500.

Ludovic Guennec was represented in Cork Circuit Criminal Court by solicitor Diarmuid Conway and a plea of guilty was entered to the charge stating that on May 18 within the exclusive fishery limits of the State, as master of the sea-fishing boat, Astrid, he did fail to retain onboard catches of seafish species which are subject to catch limits.

Sea Fisheries officer, Seán Ivory, said it was classed as a serious offence as it was necessary to have the accurate recording of all fish caught as this data could determine how fish quotas are determined and how particular areas might need to be made subject of controls for conservation reasons.

Prosecution barrister Brendan Kelly said that incorrect data would give a false impression of fish stocks.

Solicitor Dermot Conway said the accused cooperated fully with the investigation and made zero attempt at deception. 

The officer agreed with this characterisation.

Mr Conway said the 52-year-old was new to the role of being skipper of this vessel, he had no previous convictions and he was not fully aware of the up-to-date regulations.

Judge Helen Boyle said it was highly unsatisfactory to have a situation where a skipper was not fully aware of the latest regulations. 

She also noted his explanation that it was his practice to record the catch at the end of each night at sea rather than on a continuous basis.

In all the circumstances the judge imposed a €12,500 fine and a confiscation of fish and gear totalling €30,000 at Cork Circuit Criminal Court.