The Sea Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) has commended its fisheries officers on their “diligent work and dedication” in relation to two separate cases before the courts this month.
Two separate prosecutions were undertaken by the SFPA, in cooperation with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI).
A case on November 4th, 2024 was finalised,involving Richard Branagan of Skerries, County Dublin, the SFPA says.
“The master of the fishing vessel “Nausicaa”, Mr Branagan entered a guilty plea to a charge of obstruction, during a food safety inspection onboard a fishing vessel, contrary to the Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act 1998,”it said.
“ His actions resulted in the forced abandonment of the inspection by officers,”it said.
“In that instance, the court directed the payment of a charitable donation and a contribution towards the costs of the SFPA totalling €1,200 before dealing with the matter under the Probation Act,”it said.
In a separate prosecution, John Hayes, of Bettystown, Co. Meath was charged with, and pleaded guilty to, knowingly providing false information to an SFPA officer, an offence under the Food Safety Authority of Ireland Act 1998.
“The case was finalised before Judge Anthony Halpin in Dublin District Court on March 4th, 2024,”the SFPA says.
“In his ruling, Judge Halpin underscored the seriousness of the offence, noting that ‘all requirements must be met to uphold the integrity of the product, as failure to do so could damage the reputation of Irish produce on the international stage’.”
“The SFPA acknowledges the court’s strong stance on the severity of these offences. Food safety laws are essential for protecting consumer health and maintaining trust in the seafood sector,”it said.
Commending its officers, it said “their work reflects the SFPA’s role in the enforcement of food safety laws and underscores the importance of cooperation, and transparency in order to maintain Ireland’s high standards and respected reputation in the global market”.
