Fishermen from Clogherhead have raised alarms over what they describe as growing safety issues within the inshore fishing fleet, following a series of recent maritime incidents along the east coast.
In a statement issued last week, the group pointed to the sinking of the Graceful Morning (DA115) off Bettystown, Co. Meath on Saturday, November 29, as the latest in a series of six serious incidents—four sinkings and two groundings—that have occurred in recent months, resulting in one fatality.
According to the statement, concerns centre on crewing standards, vessel maintenance, and what the fishermen describe as inadequate oversight by regulatory bodies. They also expressed unease about language barriers and training levels among some crews, particularly those made up of non-EU workers.
“This was the second call-out for emergency services in the same week,” the statement reads. “As with nearly all of these incidents, none of the crew members had sufficient English to communicate effectively, and the vessel did not have a working VHF radio.”
The group further raised questions about compliance with crew composition regulations attached to fishing licences and urged authorities to take stronger enforcement action.
While the statement includes references to the circumstances of recent incidents, including claims regarding vessel standards and insurance status, these assertions have not been independently verified.
The fishermen warned that continued incidents could lead to restrictions within traditional fishing areas near Drogheda Port, which they argue would unfairly penalise long-standing local operators.
When contacted for comment, a spokesperson for Drogheda Port Company responded: “There is nothing to comment on at this time.”
