HAVERFORDWEST MAGISTRATES’ COURT will host multiple cases tomorrow (Dec 11) concerning alleged breaches of fishing regulations in Pembrokeshire waters. These cases highlight ongoing efforts to enforce compliance with marine legislation aimed at preserving sustainable fishing practices.

Several individuals and companies from Belgium are due to appear, accused of failing to comply with fishing regulations. Among them are Rederij ARIS BVI (a firm) and Kevin De Groote, both charged with failing to maintain accurate logbook records for catches made by the fishing vessel Windroos (PLN: Z98) between September 20 and 30, 2023. These cases carry potential unlimited fines under the Fisheries Act 1981.

Other Belgian defendants include Yannick Bernard, Zeemansblik BVBA (a firm), and Vaya Con Dios BV (a firm), each accused of similar logbook inaccuracies involving their respective vessels during different periods. These charges also carry severe penalties, with cases adjourned from earlier hearings.

Two individuals, Deniss Ivanovs and Juris Liepins, along with Pentire Fishing Limited, face charges for allegedly fishing for whelks in the Welsh zone without the required permits earlier this year. Their cases, related to operations involving the vessel Amber Mabel (PLN: PW21), were previously adjourned and now return for further hearings. The maximum penalty for these offences under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 is a Level 5 fine.

The court will also hear cases involving Peter Nicholls and Joseph Linden Speirs, accused of contravening prohibition orders in the Three Rivers Estuary. Their alleged offences, including fishing for cockles during a closure period, breach the Sea Fish (Conservation) Act 1967. These cases were also adjourned for further management.

Repeated adjournments feature prominently, with several cases delayed at the request of either the defence or prosecution. This highlights the complexities of prosecuting international maritime offences.

The Herald says: Tomorrow’s session underscores the court’s role in upholding marine laws, a vital step in combating overfishing and ensuring compliance with regulations designed to protect the UK’s marine environment.