Displaying items by tag: Standy Partrol

13th December 2020

UK Royal Navy's Standby Patrol 'Irresponsible' - Irish MEP Barry Andrews

Irish MEP Barry Andrews has criticised the British government's plan to put Royal Navy patrol boats on standby to protect UK waters in the event of a no-deal Brexit. "It's 19th century gun boat diplomacy," he said. Above. A Royal Navy fisheries patrol vessel HMS Mersey which AFLOAT adds has visited Irish ports since its commissioning in 2003.

The Irish MEP Barry Andrews has criticised the British government's plan to put Royal Navy patrol boats on standby to protect UK waters in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

"I think it is irresponsible. It's completely inappropriate. It's 19th century gun boat diplomacy," he said.

The British Ministry of Defence said four ships were ready for "robust enforcement" when the transition period ends as fishing continues to be one of the major sticking points in negotiations.

Mr Andrews, a member of the European Parliament Committee on International Trade, said the announcement was made the day after the European Commission published a regulation that would have allowed for reciprocal EU-UK access to each other's fishing waters.

"We have an approach to a modern free trade deal and a responsible attitude in the event of no-deal and the UK decides to deploy naval vessels.

"It is very disappointing to see this and it doesn't bode well for an accord being reached in the next 48 hours," the Fianna Fáil MEP said.

The Department of Defence told RTÉ that fisheries protection "in accordance with the state's obligations as a member of the European Union" is the main day-to-day role of the Irish Navy.

It said 90% of the patrols it carries out "on a regular and frequent basis" are dedicated to it. The patrols cover Irish waters from the shoreline to the outer limits of the Exclusive Economic Zone.

For much more reports RTE News

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About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.