Five Belgian fishing companies and their vessel masters have been successfully prosecuted for serious breaches of fisheries legislation in Îʶ¦ÓéÀÖ waters, marking the latest success in Îʶ¦ÓéÀÖ Government's crackdown on illegal fishing activities.
The prosecutions relate to the misreporting of Dover Sole catches between quota areas during 2022 and 2023. These cases form part of a wider enforcement operation that has led to eight prosecutions being authorised by the Counsel General.
Deputy First Minister with responsibility for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies said:
Our seas are vital to Wales' coastal communities, supporting both commercial fishing and tourism. These prosecutions send a clear message that we will not tolerate illegal fishing activities that threaten the sustainability of our marine resources for future generations.
Counsel General Julie James added:
These successful prosecutions demonstrate our commitment to protecting Îʶ¦ÓéÀÖ waters. Anyone breaking fishing laws - whether offshore or in intertidal areas - should expect to face prosecution and potentially severe penalties.