Fishing vessels over 24 metres are surveyed in accordance with the provisions of the International Maritime Organisation's Torremolinos Protocol, which was given effect in the EU by Council Directive 97/70 as amended. The provisions of the Directive lays down harmonised standards for seagoing fishing vessels of 24 metres in length and over insofar as the Annex to the Torremolinos Protocol applies. The following Regulations implement the Directive into Irish law:
The Minister for Transport introduced Regulations entitled Merchant Shipping (safety of Fishing Vessels) (15 - 24 Metres) Regulations 2007 (S.I. 640 of 2007). These Regulations enhance the Safety of fishing vessels and their crew in the 15 - 24 metre length category.
With regard to fishing vessels less than 15 metres in length, the Department's Code of Practice applies. This Code sets minimum standards of safety for the vessels to protect all persons on board. The Code is in accordance with best international practice and covers vessel design, construction, machinery, safety equipment, stability and operational issues. The Code is available here
The following Regulation applies to all Fishing Vessels Greater than 15 Metres
The Crew Agreements for Share Fishers working aboard trawlers of 25 tons tonnage or upwards and Official Logbook for fishing boats of 25 tons tonnage or upwards has recently been updated with printed copies being available shortly. In the interim please use the electronic version below.
Printed copies can be requested at mmo@transport.gov.ie
